There are three main types:
· Inattentive Type
· Hyperactive type
· Combined type
Below is an algorithm of medications typically used in treating ADHD. These are most effective when combined with interventions to manage behavior and other impacting environmental factors. This table is just to give parents and patients an idea of what may be recommended if and when they are diagnosed with ADHD. Included are links for each medication on https://medlineplus.gov/ which is where I typically refer my patients to obtain information about the medications prior to prescribing them.
I am not the physician for any individual reading this and thus not directly recommending a particular medication. The order of medications also does not really indicate an order or preference as based on the particular patient's history and presentation a medication lower in the table may be more appropriate. Basically, talk to your doctor.
1st LINE - STIMULANTS:
Methylphenidate: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682188.html
DexMethylphenidate: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603014.html
TARGET SYMPTOMS: Hyperactivity, Impulsivity, inattention.
SIDE EFFECTS: Appetite suppression, Mood changes, Insomnia, Cardiac arrhythmias.
CAUTION: If there is a history of cardiac arrhythmias in the patient or in the immediate family typically an EKG is recommended before starting medications.
Risk of addiction and developing tolerance. Thus use more than prescribed amounts is not recommended.
1st LINE - STIMULANTS:
Mixed amphetamine & Dextroamphetamine salts: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601234.html
Lisdexamfetamine https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607047.html
TARGET SYMPTOMS: Hyperactivity, Impulsivity, inattention.
SIDE EFFECTS: Appetite suppression, Mood changes, Insomnia, Cardiac arrhythmias.
CAUTION: If there is a history of cardiac arrhythmias in the patient or in the immediate family typically an EKG is recommended before starting medications.
Risk of addiction and developing tolerance. Thus use more than prescribed amounts is not recommended.
2nd LINE - NON-STIMULANTS:
Norepinephrine Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor [NNRI] - Atomoxetine: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603013.html
TARGET SYMPTOMS: Inattention; Anxiety; Insomnia; Irritability.
SIDE EFFECTS: Irritability, mood lability..
2nd LINE - NON-STIMULANTS:
Alpha 2a Agonists - Guanfacine: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601059.html
TARGET SYMPTOMS: Hyperactivity; Impulsivity; Insomnia.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, Rebound hypertension and rebound headaches if taken inconsistently, Cardiac arrhythmias.
CAUTION: If there is a history of cardiac arrhythmias in the patient or in the immediate family typically an EKG is recommended before starting medications.
2nd LINE - NON-STIMULANTS:
Alpha 2a Agonists - Clonidine: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682243.html
TARGET SYMPTOMS: Hyperactivity, Impulsivity, Insomnia.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, Rebound hypertension and rebound headaches if taken inconsistently, Cardiac arrhythmias.
3rd LINE - NON-STIMULANTS:
Anti-Depressant - Bupropion: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695033.html
TARGET SYMPTOMS: Inattention, Anxiety, Lowered seizure threshold- more commonly seen with immediate-release versions.
SIDE EFFECTS: Insomnia, Irritability.
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