What Are the Medications to Treat ADHD?

ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurobehavioral condition that affects the ability to concentrate, the ability to sit quietly, and the ability to control impulsivity. Since the 1930's, stimulants such as Dexedrine and Ritalin have been used successfully to alleviate symptoms and allow those who have the disorder to increase their concentration and live more successful and more productive lives. Since then, pharmaceutical companies have developed new medications to help control symptoms.

Ritalin Type Drugs

• Ritalin (methylphenidate) has been used with some success to treat ADHD since the 1960's. Since that time, a number of Ritalin-type drugs have been developed, such as Focalin, Methylin, Concerta, and Metadate. Many of these are in sustained-release form to eliminate the inconvenience of pill-taking during school hours. Daytrana is in a patch form,that can be easily removed if the medication interferes with sleep.

Dexadrine Type Drugs

• Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) is a stimulant from the amphetamine family that has also been used to reduce ADHD symptoms. It works by stimulating areas of the brain so that brain chemicals are more available. It's considered to have a gentler start and stop than Ritalin. Another amphetamine-based medication Adderall, a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, was introduced in 1996 that comes in both instant release and extended release

Non-Stimulant Drugs

• Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for ADHD. It works by boosting the level of norepinephrine and is longer acting than some other ADHD medications, working for over 24 hours. The medication does not exacerbate tics and Tourette's symptoms.

Off-Label Uses of Other Drugs

• 'Off-label' is a term used for drugs that were developed for one disease, but have been used successfully for the treatment of another. High blood pressure medications such as Catapres (clonidine) and Tenex (guanfacine) have been used off-label for ADHD with some success. Antidepressants such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) target norepinephrine and dopamine as do the stimulant medications and are helpful for those with underlying depression. Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine and desipramine are also used for ADHD.

New Drugs Being Developed for ADHD

• A recent Israeli study of the antidepressant reboxetine reported interesting results of its off-label use for the symptoms of ADHD. The drug showed significant improvement in ADHD symptoms after an eight-week study, paving the way for more intensive studies of its use against ADHD symptoms in children in the U.S. Other studies underway in the U.S. and around the world will no doubt offer even more choices for those suffering from ADHD.