Stimulants are the most effective and most studied medications for ADHD in children, adolescents and adults, with roughly 70 to 80 percent of people showing a meaningful improvement in attention and impulse control. They fall into two families. Methylphenidate products include Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, Daytrana and Jornay PM. Amphetamine products include Adderall, Vyvanse, Evekeo and Mydayis. Both increase dopamine and norepinephrine signaling in the prefrontal cortex, which improves the brain's ability to sustain attention, hold information in working memory and resist distraction.
Formulations differ mainly in how long they last. Immediate-release tablets work for three to four hours; extended-release versions last eight to fourteen hours and are usually preferred for school and work days. Effects begin within an hour, so dosing can be adjusted week to week rather than waiting the month an antidepressant requires. Common side effects are reduced appetite, trouble falling asleep, dry mouth, and a modest rise in heart rate and blood pressure, which your provider checks at visits. Stimulants are Schedule II controlled substances because of misuse potential, so prescriptions cannot be refilled, require a new order each month, and are tracked through state prescription monitoring programs in Florida and South Carolina. Federal rules now permit telehealth prescribing under specific conditions. At Stedfast Psychiatry, stimulant treatment follows a confirmed ADHD evaluation and includes regular monitoring of benefit, side effects and growth in younger patients.
Where this applies at Stedfast
- ADHD
- ADHD Testing and Evaluation for Adults and Children
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Psychiatric Medication Management