ADHD Medication

ADHD medication can play an important role in managing symptoms, but the right treatment should always be guided by a specialist and tailored to your individual needs.

How do stimulants work?

Stimulants can help manage ADHD symptoms in several ways.

They primarily work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, attention span and motivation.

By supporting dopamine levels, stimulant medication can help improve concentration and focus while reducing irritability and hyperactivity.

However, stimulants are classified as legally controlled substances due to their potential for misuse and addiction.

People can respond differently to different types of stimulant medication, so close monitoring by an ADHD specialist is important. This helps ensure the correct medication and dosage are being used for your individual needs.

Possible side effects of stimulant medication include decreased appetite, weight loss, mood swings and sleep disturbances.

It is important to speak with your ADHD specialist and report any significant side effects that occur regularly.

How does non-stimulant medication work?

Non-stimulant ADHD medications tend to have a longer duration of action and are usually taken once daily.

This can be helpful for individuals who also experience depression, as some non-stimulant medications may have anti-depressive properties.

One of the most commonly prescribed non-stimulants is Atomoxetine, often referred to as Strattera. Atomoxetine works by increasing noradrenaline levels in the brain, which can help improve concentration and impulse control.

This medication is generally prescribed when stimulant medication has been ruled out or has not been effective.

Side effects of non-stimulant ADHD medication can include decreased appetite, weight loss and sleep disturbances.

As with stimulant medication, we encourage you to contact your ADHD specialist if you regularly experience any significant side effects.

Take our free online ADHD quiz

Gain insights in just minutes to determine if ADHD traits are part of your story.

When answering the following questions, please consider how they have applied to you over the past six months.

This test will provide an indication of whether you are experiencing the most common symptoms of ADHD. However, it is important to note that this test cannot replace a comprehensive assessment and should not be used for self-diagnosis or to determine a treatment plan.

An accurate diagnosis can only be made through a clinical evaluation by a trained mental health professional.