Finding the right ADHD medication to treat your symptoms can be overwhelming, especially with so many options out there. We’ve compiled an ADHD medication guide to help you have informed discussions with your mental healthcare provider. This way, you can advocate for yourself, empowered with knowledge.
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Types of ADHD Medication
There are two main types of ADHD medication: stimulant and non-stimulant. Non-stimulant medication has a lower risk of adverse effects. This means some people may prefer non-stimulants over stimulants if they have a heart condition or experience negative side effects like an increased heart rate, anxiety, or loss of appetite.
That said, stimulants are most often prescribed to treat ADHD because they work for 70-80% of people who experience symptoms. Choosing the right medication will depend on your current symptoms, health history, and the recommendation of your healthcare provider.
Stimulant ADHD Medication
Stimulant ADHD medications increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help improve focus and concentration. These medications can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature, affecting sleep cycles and appetite. Some common stimulants include methylphenidate, amphetamines, and dextroamphetamine.
Non-stimulant ADHD Medication
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are typically the second or third option for treatment because they can take longer to work and aren’t as effective for everyone.
Like stimulants, these non-stimulant medications increase levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain and can be used as an alternative for those who do not respond well to stimulants. Common non-stimulants include Atomoxetine and Guanfacine.
Stimulant ADHD Medication Options
There are several options for stimulant ADHD medication. These medications fall into three categories: Methylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, and Amphetamine.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD. This stimulant is available in several brand names, including Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, and Metadate, and comes in different forms, from immediate-release tablets to extended-release tablets and capsules.
Concerta
Concerta (methylphenidate in its generic form) is an extended-release tablet taken once daily and designed to last the entire day. Take this medication as prescribed to avoid habit formation and adverse side effects. You should not use Concerta if you have glaucoma, Tourette’s, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, seizures, or severe anxiety.
Side effects of Concerta include:
- Sweating
- Increased blood pressure
- Mood changes
- Fast heart rate
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
- Headache
- Dizziness
Focalin
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate in its generic form) is a mild stimulant that affects chemicals in the brain associated with hyperactivity and impulse control. This medication is an immediate-release or extended-release capsule typically taken once or twice a day, respectively. Common side effects of Focalin include loss of appetite, nausea, stomach pain, or fever.
You should not take Focalin if you are allergic to dexmethylphenidate or methylphenidate. Avoid Focalin if you have a history of heart problems, a congenital heart defect, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease or sudden death.
Metadate, Metadate CD, Metadate ER
Metadate (methylphenidate in its generic form) is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of ADHD and Narcolepsy to help you pay attention, stay alert, and control impulsive behaviors. This medication comes in both immediate-release and extended-release capsules from 10 mg to 50 mg.
Common side effects of Metadate include:
- Excessive sweating
- Mood changes
- Irritability
- Sleep problems
- Fast heart rate
- Pounding heartbeats
- Fluttering in your chest
- Increased blood pressure
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Headache
You should not use Metadate if you have circulatory problems, heart issues, glaucoma, a history of Tourette’s, or severe anxiety.
Methylin, Methylin ER
Methylin (methylphenidate in its generic form) is used to treat ADHD and Narcolepsy and should be taken exactly as directed by your healthcare provider to avoid habit formation. This medication comes as an extended-release tablet, capsule, chewable tablet, and oral solution and should be taken as prescribed.
Common side effects of Methylin include:
- Sweating
- Increased blood pressure
- Mood changes
- Fast heart rate
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Headache
- Dizziness
You should not take Methylin if you have glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart issues, thyroid problems, a family history of tics or Tourette’s syndrome, or severe anxiety.
Ritalin, Ritalin LA, Ritalin SR
Ritalin (methylphenidate in its generic form) is a stimulant used to treat ADHD and Narcolepsy as part of a total treatment program. Ritalin comes in immediate-release and extended-release capsules taken two to three times or once a day, respectively. This medication can be habit-forming, so taking it exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider is essential.
Common side effects of Ritalin include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Sweating
- Mood changes (anxiety, feeling nervous)
- Trouble sleeping
- Irritability
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain or indigestion
- Headache
- Dizziness
Do not take Ritalin if you experience heart issues, psychosis, circulatory problems, Glaucoma, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, family or personal history of muscle twitches or Tourette’s, or severe anxiety.
Dextroamphetamine
Dextroamphetamine is another type of stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. This medication works by boosting the levels of particular neurotransmitters in the brain to help you focus and concentrate better. Dextroamphetamine is available in several brand names, including Dexedrine and Adderall.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is prescribed to treat symptoms of ADHD and Narcolepsy, helping you pay attention, stay focused, control impulsivity, and stay awake during the day. It comes in extended-release capsules with dosages from 5 mg to 15 mg daily. Before taking Dexedrine, tell your care provider about any allergies or other medications you’re taking.
Common side effects of Dexedrine include:
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Unpleasant taste
- Constipation
- Weight loss
- Changes in sex drive or ability
You should not take Dexedrine if you have glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, anxiety, or if you or anyone in your family has ever had an irregular heartbeat, depression, bipolar disorder, mania, tics, or Tourette’s Syndrome.
Dextroamphetamine Sulfate ER
Dextroamphetamine Sulfate treats ADHD and Narcolepsy, helping you pay attention, stay alert, and manage impulsive behaviors. This medication may also help you organize tasks and improve your listening skills. You’ll take this medication in capsule form one to three times a day, depending on the recommendation of your care provider.
Some common side effects of Dextroamphetamine Sulfate include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Sweating
- Weight loss
- Irritability
- Restlessness
You should not take Dextroamphetamine Sulfate if you’re allergic to amphetamine or lisdexamfetamine or if you experience any other allergies. Tell your provider if you have circulatory problems, mood conditions, personal or family history of mental health issues, heart problems, stroke, or high blood pressure.
Amphetamine
Amphetamine is also a type of stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. Like other stimulants, this medication increases the presence of neurotransmitters in your brain to help you pay attention, stay awake, and focus. It’s available in several brand names, including Adderall.
Adderall, Adderall XR
Adderall treats ADHD and Narcolepsy, containing a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both central nervous system stimulants associated with hyperactivity and impulse control. Adderall comes as an immediate-release tablet or an extended-release capsule in 5 mg to 30 mg, depending on your provider’s recommendation.
Common side effects of Adderall include:
- Lack of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Trouble sleeping
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
Do not take Adderall if you have Glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, severe anxiety or agitation, high blood pressure, heart disease, vascular disease, or a history of drug or alcohol misuse.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a stimulant used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorders. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improve focus and attention while reducing impulsivity.
Vyvanse
Vyvanse is used to treat ADHD and binge eating disorders. This medication comes in a capsule form or a chewable tablet typically taken once daily with a dosage ranging from 10 to 70 mg.
The most common side effects of Vyvanse include the following:
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Trouble sleeping
- Stomach pain
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Nausea and vomiting
You should not take Vyvanse if you have a heart condition, circulatory problems, psychiatric issues, or kidney problems.
Stimulant Warnings
When taking any stimulant medication, it’s important to monitor your symptoms. If you experience signs of heart problems, psychosis, circulation problems, or a painful penis erection beyond four hours, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You should also avoid stimulants if you’ve taken an MAO inhibitor within two weeks of starting the new medication.
Sometimes taking stimulants can result in reactions like Serotonin Syndrome or have a negative effect on pregnant people, which is why you must consult your care provider before pursuing them as an effective treatment.
Serotonin Syndrome
Serotonin Syndrome is a serious drug reaction that occurs when there’s too much serotonin in your system. This reaction can result from taking medications that impact the amount of serotonin in your body. Symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome include:
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
- Fever
- Sweating
- Shivering
- Fast heart rate
- Muscle stiffness
- Twitching
- Loss of coordination
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Serotonin Syndrome can be fatal if left untreated, so you must contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of those symptoms.
Warnings for Pregnancy
Talk to your care provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking a stimulant. Some research has shown that taking stimulants while pregnant can increase the risk of congenital disabilities, low birth weight, and gestational hypertension.
Symptoms of Overdose
Taking stimulants exactly as prescribed is essential to avoid overdosing. Symptoms of overdose include:
- Hyperactivity
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Rapid heart rate
- Panic
- Overactive reflexes
- Muscle pains
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Rapid breathing
- Increased body temperature
- Tremors, seizures, or convulsions
- Dilated pupils
- Loss of consciousness
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, call emergency services and seek help immediately.
Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication Options
If you cannot take or do not respond well to stimulants, non-stimulant options may be your best bet when treating your ADHD symptoms. Non-stimulant medications come in three categories: Atomoxetine, Buproprion, and Alpha-2 Agonists.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is prescribed to help improve focus and decrease impulsivity in children and adults. This medication is considered a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain associated with regulating behavior.
Strattera
Strattera is the brand name version of Atomoxetine used to treat symptoms of ADHD. This medication comes in a capsule from 10 mg to 100 mg. Your healthcare provider will determine the best dose for you, depending on your medical history and current symptoms.
Side effects of Strattera include:
- Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Mood changes
- Insomnia
- Feeling tired
- Dizziness
- Increased sweating
- Urination problems
- Impotence
You should not take Strattera if you have glaucoma, adrenal gland tumors, heart disease, coronary artery disease, or moderate to severe high blood pressure. Additionally, you should avoid taking Strattera if you’ve taken an MAO inhibitor in the past two weeks. Talk to your care provider if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding before taking Strattera to ensure it’s safe for you.
If you experience suicidal thoughts or changes in mood while taking Strattera, contact your care provider immediately.
Bupropion
Bupropion is another non-stimulant option sold under the brand names Wellbutrin IR, Wellbutrin SR, and Wellbutrin XL. It’s an antidepressant that treats Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and can also treat ADHD. This medication works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve focus and attention.
Wellbutrin IR, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL
Wellbutrin is used to treat MDD and seasonal affective disorder. This medication can also be used in an off-label capacity to treat symptoms of ADHD like impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention.
Common side effects of Wellbutrin include:
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Stuffy nose
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Sleep problems
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Fast heartbeats
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Hostility
- Rash
- Weight loss
- Increased urination
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscle or joint pain
You should not take Wellbutrin if you have a seizure disorder, eating disorder, glaucoma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or have taken an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days.
Alpha-2 Agonists
Alpha-2 agonists are another non-stimulant primarily used to treat high blood pressure, but they’re also used off-label to treat ADHD symptoms. These medications work by activating alpha-2 receptors in the brain, relaxing blood vessels to reduce blood pressure, improving focus and attention, and reducing impulsivity.
Clonidine
Clonidine is also used to treat high blood pressure. Still, it can be prescribed off-label to treat symptoms of ADHD, affecting the part of the brain associated with attention and impulsivity. This medication comes as a tablet and an extended-release tablet, typically taken one or two times a day, depending on your care provider’s recommendations.
Common side effects of Clonidine include:
- Dry mouth
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Decreased sexual ability
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
You should talk with your doctor if you have any allergies, are taking any medications, supplements, or vitamins, or are pregnant before taking Clonidine. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe side effects like the following.
- Rash
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Hoarseness
Catapres Patch
A Catapres Patch is a transdermal therapeutic system that comes as an adhesive patch containing Clonidine to lower high blood pressure and prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. The Catapres Patch can also be used to treat symptoms of ADHD. It’s applied once a week, delivering the medication consistently throughout each day.
You may experience the following side effects at the site of the Catapres Patch:
- Skin redness or rash
- Itching or blistering
If these side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is often prescribed to treat high blood pressure, and the extended-release tablets can be used as part of a treatment program to manage symptoms of ADHD. This medication is a member of the centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists and decreases the heart rate by widening the blood vessels to improve circulation.
Typically taken once a day, your care provider may prescribe anywhere from 1 to 4 mg, depending on your health history and symptoms.
Common side effects of Guanfacine include:
- Dry mouth
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Headache
- Irritability
- Decreased sexual ability
- Decreased appetite
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
Before taking Guanfacine, discussing any other medications, vitamins, and supplements you take with your care provider is important. Having the full picture of your health history will allow your provider to make safe recommendations for your care.
How to Decide Which ADHD Medication Works Best for You
Stimulants are often the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD, but they may not work for everyone (especially if you have a heart condition or other underlying issues). The effects of non-stimulant ADHD medications can take longer to manifest, but they can be useful for people who cannot take stimulants or do not respond well to them.
Ultimately which ADHD medication works best for you depends on your current symptoms, health history, and the recommendation of your mental healthcare provider.
How Licensed Healthcare Providers on Klarity Help You Find the Right ADHD Medication
Getting an ADHD diagnosis and finding the right treatment should be convenient and accessible. That’s why we’ve made it our mission at Klarity to connect you with licensed providers who can treat you on your schedule in the comfort of your own home.
Take our self-evaluation survey now and get the ADHD treatment you need within 48 hours!
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