ADHD & ADD medication is an important part of ADHD management strategy along with the non-medicine strategies. ADHD medication has been around for more than fifty years and there are many published research papers on their safety and efficacy.
First-line treatment guidelines for ADHD and ADD medication are stimulant medication either a Methylphenidate or Amphetamine product. There are many different options within these two categories. ADHD stimulants work by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine within the brain. While Amphetamine also promotes the release of norepinephrine and dopamine.
The medication, doses and possible side effects listed here are for educational purposes only. You should talk to your healthcare provider about the medication options available, their benefit and possible side effects. Medication should only be started/changed/adjusted by a patient’s physician or nurse practitioner.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) Based
Foquest
Dosages
25, 35, 45, 55, 70, 85, 100mg
Duration
13 -16 hrs
Starting Dose
25mg
Maximum Dose
100mg
Concerta
Dosages
18, 27, 36, 54mg
Duration
12 hrs
Starting Dose
18mg
Maximum Dose
54mg
Biphentin
Dosages
10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80mg
Duration
10-12 hrs
Starting Dose
10mg
Maximum Dose
80mg
Amphetamine (Dexedrine) Based
Vyvanse
Dosages
10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70mg
Duration
13-14 hrs
Starting Dose
20mg
Maximum Dose
60mg
Adderall XR
Dosages
5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30mg
Duration
12 hrs
Starting Dose
5mg
Maximum Dose
30mg
Possible Medication Side Effects:
Medication management is usually effective with minimal side effects, some side effects may go away in time. It is always important to discuss with your doctor the benefits and side effects when starting any medication.
Palpitations
Increased heart rate
Irregular heart rhythm
Increased blood pressure
Sleep disturbance
Decreased appetite
Increased anxiety/ irritability
Headache
Dry mouth
Chest pain
Rashes
ADHD Medications Usually Help to:
Improve
Concentration
Focus
Attention
Ability to Complete Tasks
Quality & Quantity of Work
Decrease
Procrastination
Careless Mistakes
Impulsive Behaviour
Risk Taking
Emotional Outbursts
Please see CADDRA guide to ADHD pharmacological treatments in Canada – November 2022