Medication Options for ADHD: Understanding Treatment Choices for Children, Teens, and Adults

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions affecting both children and adults. Individuals with ADHD may struggle with focus, impulsivity, hyperactivity, organization, time management, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. ADHD symptoms can have profound affects on school and work productivity, as well as on relationships and overall quality of life. However, there are several medications that can significantly help manage ADHD symptoms.

Whether you are newly diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or have been coping with ADHD symptoms for years, it is helpful to know your medication options. In this guide, we will walk through the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications, covering the general effects, medical application, and both positive and negative effects on those taking them.

Understanding ADHD Medication Treatment

ADHD medications are prescribed to help regulate neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which control attention, motivation, impulse control and concentration.ADHD medications are generally considered to be individually prescribed, meaning that what is effective for one person may not be effective for another. Different considerations such as age and medical history, degree of ADHD symptoms, presence of other mental health conditions, lifestyle factors, and sensitivity to side effects all play a role in the selection of medication for each individual.

In many cases, ADHD medications can improve:

Attention and concentration
Task completion
Organization skills
Impulse control
Emotional regulation
Academic and work performance
Relationship functioning

Stimulant Medications for ADHD

Stimulants are the most commonly used and, for many children and adults with ADHD, the most effective treatments. They are considered first-line medications for ADHD.

Methylphenidate-Based Medications

Methylphenidate medications (Ritalin™, Methylin™, etc.) are stimulants that increase levels of two neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine. They come in both short-acting and long-acting varieties.

Common methylphenidate medications include:

These medications can improve concentration, reduce distractibility and promote persistence of task. Many prefer long-acting forms of these medications to deliver consistent levels of medication on an everyday basis.

Amphetamine-Based Medications

In addition to the previously mentioned stimulant class of ADHD medications (amphetamines were covered under that general term), amphetamine medications are commonly prescribed to treat the condition as well.

Examples include:

For some patients and some situations, medications containing amphetamine may be more effective than those that contain methylphenidate. This is due in part to individual biochemical profiles and clinical presentations.

Potential Side Effects of Stimulants

Although stimulants are very effective for appetite suppression and weight loss, they can have side effects on some people. These can include:

Decreased appetite
Difficulty sleeping
Increased heart rate
Anxiety or jitteriness
Irritability
Headaches
Dry mouth

Most side effects can be managed by an adjustment in dose, change in schedule of administration, or change to a different medication.

Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications

For various reasons such as tolerance, medical conditions, side effects or concomitant anxiety or substance use problems, some individuals may require the use of non-stimulant medications where possible.

Atomoxetine

Unlike many medications for ADHD that contain stimulants, Strattera is a non-stimulant medication. Instead of increasing levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, Strattera appears to work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.

Benefits of atomoxetine may include:

Alpha-2 Agonists

Some blood pressure medications are also prescribed for ADHD, particularly for symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and sleep problems.These include:

ADHD Medication for Adults

Unlike many children and adolescents with ADHD, many adults with ADHD have never received a diagnosis. Adult ADHD is not limited to children and teens with bumper stickers and sugar fueled energy, instead it manifests in a variety of symptoms including chronic disorganization, poor management of responsibilities, procrastination, forgetfulness, and overwhelming emotions.Medication treatment can significantly improve workplace performance, relationships, self-esteem, and daily functioning in adults with ADHD.

At Pima Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to determine if psychiatric factors, such as ADHD, may be playing a role in difficulties with focus, executive functioning or regulating emotions.

Finding the Right ADHD Medication

A major challenge in selecting the most effective medication for ADHD is the process of trial-and-error, but some considerations can help the process:

Duration of symptom coverage needed
School or work schedule
Side effect profile
Sleep patterns
Appetite concerns
Co-occurring anxiety or depression
Insurance coverage

The prescription medication regimen should be monitored and the patient should see their healthcare provider on a regular basis to assess medication effectiveness and tolerance.

ADHD Treatment Beyond Medication

Although medication is sometimes very effective, many people find that they get the best results from a more holistic approach that includes techniques like:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
ADHD coaching
Behavioral interventions
Executive functioning support
Organizational strategies
Sleep improvement
Stress management

Most effective treatment for bipolar includes a combination of medications, therapy, and behavioral support for optimal long-term recovery.

ADHD Medication Management in Tucson

Our Tucson, AZ office provides comprehensive evaluations and treatment for patients with ADHD and their families. Read more about Pima Behavioral Health’s adult and child ADHD services. We will provide an individualized evaluation for ADHD and initiate and manage medication treatment for children, adolescents, and adults as appropriate. In-person appointments as well as Telepsychiatry can be scheduled with our Nurse Practitioners based in Arizona.

Using a team approach, we partner with our patients to find the safest and most effective treatment for optimal growth and functioning. Learn more about our ADHD medication options and schedule an evaluation today. Contact Pima Behavioral Health at 520-355-1122!