Medications used to treat ADHD belong to a class of drugs known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. CNS stimulants speed up physical and mental processes by working on chemicals in the brain that arouse the nervous system. Generic medications are available as cheaper alternatives to brand name ADHD drugs. All ADHD medications can be habit-forming and lead to dependency and withdrawal if taken regularly over a long period of time, so it is important to work closely with your doctor to monitor their safety and effectiveness.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that helps to decrease restlessness and impulsivity and increase attentiveness in children and adults with ADHD. It is available as a solution or in a variety of tablet forms, including immediate-release, chewable, intermediate-acting (extended-release) or long-acting (extended release).Methylphenidate is also available as a trans-dermal, extended-release patch that is absorbed through the skin. Symptoms such as nervousness, sleep disturbances, dry mouth, muscle tightness, loss of appetite or other serious side effects may occur.
Dexmethylphenidate
Dexmethylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that is used to treat symptoms of ADHD such as inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity in adults and children ages 6 and above. Its safety and effectiveness have not been determined among children younger than 6 or pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is available as a tablet and an extended-release (long-acting) capsule taken by mouth. Rarely, a fast or irregular heartbeat and vision problems such as blurred vision, problems focusing or a change in near or distance vision may occur while taking dexmethylphenidate.
Dextroamphetamine
Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant available in extended-release capsule, solution or tablet form. It is used to treat the symptoms of ADHD and emotional instability in children and adults. Dextroamphetamine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, blurry vision and slowed growth in children. Other side effects include restlessness, dry mouth, headache, sleep and sexual disturbances and uncontrollable shaking. Rarely, delusions, hallucinations, seizures, chest pains or other serious side effects may occur.
Amphetamine Mixed Salts
Amphetamine mixed salts are drugs made up of a single amphetamine and the neutral sulfate salts of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. (See References 3) They may be used to treat the symptoms of ADHD and emotional instability. They are available in tablet and extended-release capsule form. Safety and effectiveness have not been determined for use among children under the age of 3 or in geriatric populations. Pregnant women or those who are breast feeding are advised not to take amphetamine mixed salts. Anyone taking amphetamine mixed salts may experience common side effects such as bloody or cloudy urine, bladder pain or painful urination, a frequent urge to urinate, lower back or side pain or a fast or irregular heartbeat.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, or lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is used to treat the symptoms of ADHD in children between the ages of 6 and 12 and in adults. It is available in capsule form. Its safety and effectiveness have not yet been determined among children younger than 6 or teenagers. Rarely, uncontrolled outbursts or tics may occur as a side effect of taking lisdexamfetamines.
