Overview of Medications Commonly Used for ADHD

Ritalin [Methylphenidate]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Excellent safety record, easy to use and evaluate, works in 15-20 minutes

Disadvantages: Lasts only 4 hours, must be administered frequently

Comments: Most frequently prescribed medication, watch for tics or Tourette's syndrome

Ritalin SR (sustained release) [Methylphenidate]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Excellent safety record, easy to use and evaluate, long lasting (6-8 hours)

Disadvantages: Does not work as well as regular Ritalin

Comments: Can be used along with regular Ritalin

Focalin [Dextromethylphenidate]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Works quickly, only half the dose of Ritalin is needed

Disadvantages: Lasts only 4-5 hours, must be administered frequently

Comments: Refined form of Ritalin

Dexedrine [Dextroamphetamine]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Excellent safety record, rapid onset (20-30 minutes)

Disadvantages: Lasts only 4 hours, must be administered frequently

Comments: Some students have fewer side effects than when on Ritalin

Dexedrime (sustained release) [Dextroamphetamine]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Excellent safety record, long lasting (6-8 hours)

Disadvantages: Slower onset (1-2 hours)

Comments: Can be used along with standard Dexedrine, which permits once-daily dosing

Adderall [Single-entity amphetamine product]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Works quickly, may last somewhat longer than other standard stimulants (3-6 hours)

Disadvantages: High potential for abuse

Comments: May help students for whom Ritalin has not been effective

Adderall XR [Single-entity amphetamine product]

Type of Medication: Psychostimulant

Advantages: Works quickly, lasts about 12 hours

Disadvantages: High potential for abuse

Comments: Not recommended for long-term use

Tofranil and Norpramin [Imipramine and desipramine]

Type of Medication: Antidepressant

Advantages: Long lasting (12-24 hours), can be administered at night, often works when stimulants do not

Disadvantages: Has possible side effects, may take 1-3 weeks for full effects, should not be started and stopped abruptly

Comments: High doses may improve depression symptoms and mood swings