Does the world of ADHD medication seem confusing?
Sadly, with over 11.4% of US children aged 3-17 having been diagnosed with ADHD at some point, the need for ADHD medication is greater than ever.
However, there is good news! Today, plenty of options exist that are regarded as safe and effective in helping children and adults stay focused and on task.
We at Prescription Hope want to help you simply the confusing mess behind ADHD medication options.
What does ADHD Medication Treat?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, includes symptoms such as:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Lack of impulse control
- Lack of organization
While these symptoms can show up in a lot of our children naturally, ADHD is diagnosed due to the presence of the symptoms over time and the difficulties they cause in multiple settings.
This makes ADHD medication valuable for children or adults whose daily life suffers from the inability to pay attention, keep focused, control impulses, and stay at rest.
ADHD Medication: What’s the Difference?
Generally, ADHD medication is classified as either a stimulant or non-stimulant.
Some stimulants, such as Adderall, provide a shorter time frame of effectiveness, while others such as Vyvanse last for up to 14 hours.
Likewise, some stimulants may require being taken orally by the patient, while others allow the patient to sprinkle the medication on food.
Choosing the right form of ADHD medication depends on what’s best for the patient. Having a conversation with your doctor is important to determine whether a stimulant or non-stimulant would work best for you or your child.
Considering the two types of ADHD medication will affect people differently, some testing of various types and doses may be necessary. Not only that but the possibility of side effects changes depending on which medication you or your child take. Those side effects may include the following:
Stimulant ADHD Medication Side-effects:
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite
- Heart palpitations
Non-stimulant ADHD Medication side-effects:
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Sleep difficulties
If side effects occur when taking your ADHD medication, then be sure to consult your doctor. Different types of medication exist which may reduce or stop the side effects your or your child are experiencing.
Types of ADHD Medication
5 types of ADHD medication fall under the categories of either stimulant or non-stimulant. Each type of medicine has been approved and licensed for use in treating ADHD in both kids and adults.
Stimulant Types of ADHD Medication:
- Methylphenidate
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Dexamfetamine
Non-Stimulant Types of ADHD Medication:
- Atomoxetine
- Guanfacine
While these medicines cannot cure ADHD, they can help patients focus better, control impulses, and think clearly.
Some ADHD medications may need to be taken every day, while others only need to be taken when focus is necessary. However, doctors may recommend times to take a break from taking medication for ADHD. This is often used as a phase to determine whether the child or adult still needs to take medication for their ADHD.
5 Types of ADHD Medication in Detail
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant and is typically the most commonly used. The medication works by activating areas of the brain that play a role in attention and controlling behavior.
Anybody over 5 years old with ADHD may benefit from using methylphenidate.
Commonly used brands include:
- Ritalin: A short-acting form of methylphenidate. On average, Ritalin works for 3-4 hours.
- Focalin: Another short-acting medication that provides 4 or so hours of effectiveness.
- Daytrana: A wearable patch that lasts up to 9 hours, with another hour or so of effectiveness after the patch is removed. Typically takes 1-2 hours to start working.
- Quillivant XR: A long-lasting ADHD medication that comes as a liquid. This may be a useful option for children who have difficulty swallowing capsules.
- QuilliChew ER: Another long-acting medication that lasts up to 8 hours. It comes in chewable form for children who have difficulty swallowing capsules.
- Concerta: Concerta is an ADHD medication that can last up to 12 hours, making it one of the longest-lasting options available. However, it must be swallowed.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine provides stimulation to the brain to improve concentration, reduce impulse, and help the patient focus.
Those over 5 years old with ADHD may benefit from lisdexamfetamine if at least 6 weeks of methylphenidate treatment has not worked.
Commonly used brands include:
Vyvanse: Vyvanse provides a longer-lasting effect than most other medications. The ADHD medication can be effective for up to 14 hours. The medication combines amphetamine with lysine, which gives the body an extra step before activating the amphetamine.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine works similarly to lisdexamfetamine and can be taken by those over 5 years old with ADHD.
The drug is offered as a tablet to be taken 2 to 4 times a day, but an oral alternative is also available.
Commonly used brands include:
- Dexedrine: A short-acting amphetamine. It normally takes 30-45 minutes to become effective and then lasts up to 4 hours.
- Dexedrine Spansule: A long-lasting form of Dexedrine that lasts about 6-8 hours.
- Zenzedi: A short-acting form that is a little more potent than methylphenidate.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is classified as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI). This ADHD medication works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control.
Commonly used brands include:
- Strattera: Prevents reuptake of norepinephrine. While stimulants can begin working immediately, Strattera may take 4-6 weeks to begin working. It must be taken daily.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is considered to be an alpha-adrenergic agonist. While the drug was originally introduced to lower high blood pressure, it has become a useful alternative for children with ADHD.
However, Guanfacine is an ADHD medication that not only can cause fatigue in children, but their blood pressure and heart rate must be monitored while on the medication.
Commonly used brands include:
- Tenex: A short-acting medication that may require several doses throughout the day.
- Intuniv: Intuniv is an ADHD medication that is long-lasting. Sometimes also used to treat tics.
How Much Do They Cost?
In 2024, Drugs.com reported that a supply of 100 capsules of 10mg of Adderall XR costs around $759.54. Sadly, they also reported that 100 tablets of 5mg short-acting Adderall cost around $1,139. Meanwhile, 100 capsules of Vyvanse are reported to cost over $1,300.
Some readers of additudemag.com even offered up their own horror stories when dealing with ADHD medications. The website reports that one reader stated, “My son is on Adderall XR 10mg. The price went from $10 in December to $54 in January to $158 this month,” says one reader. “When I called our prescription care plan, they said the price increase was due to supply and demand. It’s scary how the cost of a medication can fluctuate so much. Fortunately, we have covered the cost, but what about families who can’t?”
Prescription Hope and ADHD Medication
If you struggle with the cost of your ADHD medication, then we may be able to help. We at Prescription Hope want to help you access your important medications while cutting out the hassle and stress.
We work with doctors, pharmacies, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to get you access to affordable medications.
The best part? It’s $60.00 per month, per medication. Get started enrolling today!
