Drug Class Guide
ADHD Medications
Stimulant and non-stimulant medicines that improve focus and impulse control in children and adults with ADHD.
How ADHD Medications Work
ADHD involves differences in brain networks that rely on dopamine and norepinephrine for attention and impulse control. Stimulants, which include methylphenidate and the amphetamines, increase the amount of these messengers available between nerve cells and start working within about an hour. Non-stimulants work more gradually: atomoxetine and viloxazine raise norepinephrine, while guanfacine and clonidine act on alpha-2 receptors in the prefrontal cortex.
What ADHD Medications Treat
- ADHD in children and adults
- Narcolepsy (some stimulants)
- Binge eating disorder in adults (lisdexamfetamine)
ADHD Medications in Our Medication Guide
- MethylphenidateRitalin, ConcertaStimulant; short-acting tablets and long-acting forms that last up to about 12 hours.
- Amphetamine-DextroamphetamineAdderall, Adderall XRStimulant; immediate-release and extended-release capsules.
- LisdexamfetamineVyvanseStimulant prodrug the body converts to dextroamphetamine, for a smoother, long-lasting effect.
- AtomoxetineStratteraNon-stimulant, not a controlled substance; full effect can take several weeks.
- ViloxazineQelbreeNon-stimulant for children 6 and older and adults; interacts with several medicines, so a medication review comes first.
- Guanfacine ERIntunivNon-stimulant for ages 6 to 17, alone or added to a stimulant; can cause sleepiness.
- Clonidine ERKapvayNon-stimulant for ages 6 to 17, alone or added to a stimulant; lowers blood pressure.
Common Side Effects
Stimulants commonly reduce appetite and cause trouble sleeping, headache, stomachache and irritability as a dose wears off, and they raise heart rate and blood pressure slightly. Atomoxetine and viloxazine can cause nausea, tiredness and reduced appetite. Guanfacine and clonidine cause sleepiness, dizziness and lower blood pressure.
Important Cautions
- Stimulants are Schedule II controlled substances with an FDA boxed warning about misuse, abuse and addiction. Store them securely and never share them.
- Tell your doctor about heart disease, fainting, or a family history of sudden cardiac death; blood pressure and heart rate are checked during treatment.
- Atomoxetine and viloxazine carry boxed warnings about suicidal thoughts in children and teens; watch for mood changes, especially early on.
- Do not stop guanfacine or clonidine suddenly; blood pressure can rebound sharply.
- Stimulants are not taken with, or within 14 days of, an MAO inhibitor.
Common Questions About ADHD Medications
Is a stimulant or a non-stimulant better for ADHD?
Stimulants are the first choice for most children 6 and older and for adults, because they work quickly and most people respond to one of them. Non-stimulants are good options when stimulants cause side effects, when there is a history of substance misuse, or when steady all-day coverage matters. Guanfacine or clonidine can also be added to a stimulant.
What is the difference between Adderall and Vyvanse?
Both are amphetamines. Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is inactive until the body converts it, so it starts more gradually, lasts most of the day and may be less prone to misuse. Adderall comes in immediate-release tablets lasting about 4 to 6 hours and extended-release capsules lasting longer. Both are Schedule II medicines.
Do ADHD medicines work the same for adults?
Yes. Adults are treated with the same stimulants and with atomoxetine or viloxazine, usually alongside coaching or therapy for organization and time management. Before starting, adults have their blood pressure, heart history and any substance use reviewed.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for advice about your own medicines. Do not start, stop or switch a medication without talking with your doctor. Questions about a prescription? Our internal medicine team can help.
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Trusted Resources for ADHD Medications
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