Overview of Medications Commonly Used for ADHD
Source: Pearson Allyn Bacon Prentice Hall
Topics: ADHD Treatment, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Concerta [Methylphenidate]
Type of Medication: Psychostimulant
Advantages: Works quickly, lasts up to 12 hours
Disadvantages: Not recommended for children in families with a history of tic disorders
Comments: First true once-a-day ADHD medication approved by the FDA
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
© 2009, Merrill, an imprint of Pearson Education Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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