Pharmaceutical Treatments for ADHD: What You Need to Know
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of people—children, teens, and adults alike. While lifestyle changes and behavioral therapy can help manage symptoms, pharmaceutical treatment remains one of the most effective and well-researched options for improving focus, reducing impulsivity, and enhancing daily functioning.
At our psychiatric practice in Asheville, we work closely with patients to develop individualized ADHD treatment plans—often including medication when appropriate. Here’s what you should know about the most common pharmaceutical options for ADHD.
How Do ADHD Medications Work?
ADHD medications work by adjusting neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which play key roles in attention, motivation, and impulse control.
There are two primary categories of ADHD medications:
Stimulants
Non-stimulants
Each has different benefits, and the best choice depends on your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
1. Stimulant Medications for ADHD
Stimulants are the first-line treatment for ADHD and have the most extensive clinical research behind them. They work quickly and can provide noticeable improvement within 30–60 minutes of dosing.
Two main types:
Methylphenidate-based medications
(e.g., Ritalin®, Concerta®, Focalin®)Amphetamine-based medications
(e.g., Adderall®, Vyvanse®, Dexedrine®)
Benefits:
Increased attention span
Reduced hyperactivity and impulsivity
Improved task completion and emotional regulation
Common side effects:
Decreased appetite
Insomnia or sleep disturbances
Headaches or stomach upset
Mild anxiety or jitteriness
These side effects are often manageable with dose adjustments or timing changes. At our Asheville clinic, we closely monitor patients to optimize results and minimize discomfort.
2. Non-Stimulant Medications for ADHD
Non-stimulants are a good option for people who don’t respond well to stimulants, have a history of substance misuse, or prefer a different mechanism of action.
Common non-stimulant options:
Atomoxetine (Strattera®) – a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
Guanfacine (Intuniv®) – originally developed for blood pressure, also helps with emotional regulation and hyperactivity
Clonidine (Kapvay®) – used to reduce impulsivity and improve sleep
Benefits:
Lower risk of abuse or dependency
Can be taken alongside stimulant medications in some cases
Helpful for co-occurring conditions like anxiety or tics
Considerations:
Non-stimulants may take a few weeks to show full benefits and may require more gradual dose titration.
Choosing the Right ADHD Medication
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to ADHD medication. The choice depends on:
Your age and medical history
Specific symptoms and goals
Past experiences with medications
Side effect tolerance
Personal preferences and lifestyle
At our Asheville-based psychiatric practice, we take the time to understand your unique needs. We provide thorough evaluations, trial monitoring, and ongoing medication management to ensure the best possible outcome.
