Mental health medications
ADHD Medications
Learn how stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications work, common and serious side effects, important warnings and questions to discuss with a prescriber.
At a glance
- Medication class
- ADHD medications (stimulants and non-stimulants)
- Examples (generic name, brand name)
- methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
- dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)
- mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall)
- lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
- atomoxetine (Strattera)
- viloxazine (Qelbree)
- guanfacine extended-release (Intuniv)
Examples are for education only and are not a complete list or a recommendation.
Boxed warning: Prescription stimulants carry an FDA boxed warning about their high potential for misuse and abuse, which can lead to addiction, overdose and death. Atomoxetine and viloxazine carry a boxed warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents.
What are ADHD medications?
ADHD medications are prescription drugs that can reduce core symptoms of ADHD — inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity — and help people function at school, work and home.
What they’re used for
These medications are primarily used to treat ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. Some are also approved for other conditions, such as narcolepsy.
How they work
- Stimulants increase the availability of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can improve attention and self-control. They include methylphenidate-based and amphetamine-based medications, in short- and long-acting forms.
- Non-stimulants work in other ways. Atomoxetine and viloxazine affect norepinephrine. Guanfacine and clonidine (extended-release) act on receptors involved in attention and impulse control.
How they’re taken
Most ADHD medications are taken by mouth, often once or twice daily. Long-acting formulations are designed to last through the day. Prescribers typically adjust doses gradually and review benefits and side effects regularly. This page does not provide dosing guidance.
Common side effects
- Reduced appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headache or stomachache
- Irritability or mood changes as medication wears off
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure (stimulants)
- Drowsiness or low blood pressure (guanfacine and clonidine)
Serious side effects
Contact a healthcare professional promptly about:
- Chest pain, fainting or shortness of breath
- New or worsening psychiatric symptoms, such as agitation, paranoia or hallucinations
- Circulation problems in the fingers or toes
- Thoughts of suicide (particularly with atomoxetine or viloxazine in young people)
Warnings
- Misuse: stimulants have a high potential for misuse. Store them securely and never share them.
- Heart health: tell your prescriber about any heart conditions or family history of sudden cardiac death.
- Growth: children’s height and weight are usually monitored.
- Stopping: guanfacine and clonidine should not be stopped suddenly because blood pressure can rebound.
Interactions
ADHD medications can interact with MAOIs (a dangerous combination), some antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and decongestants. Alcohol and other substances can increase risks. Tell your prescriber and pharmacist about everything you take.
Questions to ask your healthcare professional
- Would a stimulant or non-stimulant be more suitable for me, and why?
- What side effects should I watch for?
- How will we monitor heart rate, blood pressure or growth?
- How will we decide whether the dose is right?
- What non-medication strategies should I combine with treatment?
Related medication classes
Find care
Find the right support
Compare types of care — from online therapy to psychiatry — and learn what to consider before choosing a provider.
Explore care optionsWhen to seek professional help
Consider talking with a doctor or licensed mental health professional if symptomslast for more than two weeks, keep coming back, or make it harder to manage work, school, relationships or daily tasks. You don’t need to wait until things feel severe — getting support early often makes things easier.
If you’re thinking about harming yourself or are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number. In the US, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).Crisis resources in other countries.
Explore care optionsFrequently asked questions
Are ADHD medications safe for adults?
What is the difference between stimulants and non-stimulants?
Can I share my ADHD medication?
References
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About this article
Written by
ExploreMentalHealth Editorial Team
Our editors research and write every article using government health agencies, professional medical organizations and peer-reviewed research, following our published editorial standards.
- First published
- September 10, 2026
- Last updated
- September 22, 2026
- Last medically reviewed
- Review pending