adhd anxiety medication help treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquids and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine and dextro, and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is available as a four-hour capsule or tablet.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most commonly prescribed medications and are effective in 70 to 80 percent of children and adults. These drugs increase the levels of hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in the brain, which helps you think clearly, pay attention and control your impulses. The majority of stimulants work within 30 minutes. They can help you decrease interruptions, fidgeting, and complete tasks and improve your relationships. However, they won't eliminate all your symptoms or prevent you from suffering from side effects.
Stimulant medications come in both short- and long-acting dosages. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours, and require a minimum of daily dosages. Long-acting stimulants should be taken every day. Some sufferers experience an "crash" or the sudden loss of energy, mood or hunger as the drug wears off. If this occurs, your doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant, or shift you to a longer-acting drug.
Amphetamines are the most common stimulant medications for ADHD, but they also have a long history of misuse and abuse as recreational drugs or performance-enhancing substances. They are available in prescription and over-the-counter forms and, when inhaled or smoked, they reach the brain quickly to produce a rush of energy and an euphoria. They have been abused by students, athletes truck drivers, soldiers and students. In 2017, about two percent of Canadian students reported abusing amphetamines for recreational purposes.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in that it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine and dopamine out of the brain. It comes in immediate-release extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets that are taken every day, either once or twice. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved medication for ADHD that boosts the amount of noradrenaline that is present in your brain. It's available as tablets or capsules that are to be taken daily, either once or twice. Atomoxetine is available to adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other Medications for ADHD
Some people have found that stimulants don't work or cause adverse side effects and their doctor may look at other options for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) could aid in improving your ability focus, stay on task and manage your emotions. medication for adhd and anxiety include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It can take time to find the perfect ADHD medication for your child or yourself. Be patient and work with your doctor to find a medication, dosage and schedule that will work for you. Use this chart to help remember the names of some of the most sought-after ADHD medications, including stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants like Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on each medicine to see an in-depth breakdown of its adverse effects, dosages, formulations and additional factors to consider.