Medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Common names are:

• Methylphenidate
• Dextroamphetamine
• Amphetamine
• Methylphenidate patch
• Lisdexamfetamine
• Dexmethylphenidate

Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD. They work by changing the action of a brain chemical called dopamine. It can stimulate parts of the brain that are less active. This creates a calming effect that makes it easier to focus. There is a risk these medicines can become addictive. The lowest dose will be given at first. The person will be monitored for changes.

Problems may be:

• Insomnia
• Upset stomach
• Headache
• Lack of hunger
• Irritability
• Rage
• Confusion
• Shakiness
• Seeing or hearing things that are not there
• Seizures
• Slowed growth

There are many types of antidepressants.

Common names are:

• Bupropion
• Fluoxetine
• Sertraline
• Doxepin
• Protriptyline
• Amitriptyline
• Imipramine
• Desipramine

These medicines affect two brain chemicals called norepinephrine or serotonin. Most affect both chemicals. Some may only act on one. All are used to treat depression.

Problems may be:

• Dry mouth
• Lightheadedness
• Tiredness
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Weight gain
• Constipation
• Problems passing urine
• Blurred vision

Problems with bupropion may be:

• Weight loss
• Anxiety
• Seizures
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia

Antipsychotics may be given to people who have aggressive behavior.

Common names are:

• Risperidone
• Quetiapine

Problems may be:

• Tiredness
• Constipation
• Problems passing urine
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Muscle spasms
• Restlessness
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Weight gain

Atomoxetine is not a stimulant. It works by changing how a brain chemical called norepinephrine works.

Problems may be:

• Lack of hunger
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Tiredness
• Weight loss
• Slowed growth rate
• Rapid heartbeat

Modafinil is a drug used to improve wakefulness. It may be helpful in people with ADHD.

Problems may be:

• Insomnia
• Belly pain
• Lack of hunger
• Cough
• Fever
• Runny nose
• Headache

Clonidine stimulates certain areas of the brain. It works like stimulants. Taking it in the morning increases calming. It can be taken as a pill or used as a patch on the skin.

Problems may be:

• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness
• Lightheadedness
• Constipation
• Stomach upset

Guanfacine helps with impulse and attention problems. It may take two weeks to see results.

It may take 2 weeks before results can be seen. Never take guanfacine with other medicines that have the same drugs.

Problems may be:

• Headache
• Lightheadedness
• Sleepiness,
• Blurred vision
• Problems with focus
• Constipation
• Dry mouth