What medications are currently being used to treat ADHD?

Psychostimulant medications, including methylphenidate (Ritalin®) and amphetamines (Dexedrine®, Dextrostat®, and Adderall®), are by far the most widely researched and commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD. Numerous short–term studies have established the safety and efficacy of stimulants and psychosocial treatments for alleviating the symptoms of ADHD. NIMH research has indicated that the two most effective treatment modalities for elementary school children with ADHD are a closely monitored medication treatment and a treatment that combines medication with intensive behavioral interventions. In the NIMH Multimodal Treatment Study for Children with ADHD (MTA), which included nearly 600 elementary school children across multiple sites, nine out of ten children improved substantially on one of these treatments. Additionally, antidepressant medications may also be used as a second line of treatments for children who show poor response to stimulants, who have unacceptable side effects, ...  more

A. At this time, Psychostimulant medications, including methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines (Dexedrine, Dextrostat, and Adderall), are by far the most widely researched and commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD. Antidepressant medications may also be used as a second line of treatments for those who show poor response to stimulants, who have unacceptable side effects, or who have comorbid conditions (such as tics, anxiety, or mood disorders).  more