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What Adults Take for ADHD

The name Ritalin has become synonymous with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication. It is only one brand of stimulants used, however. Not only are there several other stimulant medications used to treat ADHD; there are several other types of medication including non-stimulants, antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs. Any medication taken for ADHD should be monitored by a physician knowledgeable about ADHD and the various medications.

Please note: In this article, the term ADHD is used to refer to both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).

  1. Psychostimulants

    • Most people diagnosed with ADHD are treated with psychostimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Metadate, and Methylin), amphetamine (Adderall), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Dextrostat) or lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse). These medications help stimulate the prefrontal cortex of the brain; this increases the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which help regulate attention and behavior. Side effects for these drugs include decreased appetite, insomnia, stomachaches and headaches. Risks of stimulant medication include an increase in psychiatric problems such as hearing voices or hallucinations and a higher risk of strokes or heart attacks (in patients with a heart condition).

    Nonstimulant medication

    • In 2003, atomoxetine (Strattera) became the first nonstimulant medication to be approved by the FDA for treatment of ADHD. It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It is unclear exactly how it works as a treatment for ADHD, but it is believed to regulate norepinephrine in the brain. Side effects for Strattera include upset stomach, nausea or vomiting, reduced appetite, weight loss, dizziness, drowsiness, mood swings and a slowing of growth in children. It can also increase suicidal thoughts in some people and cause liver dysfunction.

    Antidepressants

    • Although they are not approved by the FDA as a treatment for ADHD, antidepressants are commonly prescribed. There are three types of antidepressants: tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), mono-amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and bupropion and venlafaxine (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs). Like the other drugs listed, these drugs affect the norepinephrine and/or dopamine levels in the brain. Side effects vary depending on the antidepressant, but can include dry mouth, nausea, drowsiness, and sexual problems.

    Antihypertensive Drugs

    • Clonidine (Catapres) and guanfacine (Tenex) are antihypertensive agents that can be prescribed as a treatment for ADHD, although they are not approved by the FDA as such. Again, the drugs are believed to affect dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These drugs are more commonly prescribed to children that exhibit aggression rather than to adults. Side effects can include sleepiness, hypotension and dry mouth or nose.

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