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ADHD Medications: Stimulant vs. Non-Stimulant
Learn how ADHD medications work, how stimulants and non-stimulants compare and what to discuss with your provider. All prescription ADHD medications require an evaluation by a licensed provider and are not sold through our online store.
How ADHD Medications Work
ADHD medications improve attention and impulse control by affecting brain chemicals involved in focus, mainly dopamine and norepinephrine. They don’t cure ADHD, but they can significantly reduce symptoms while you take them.
Stimulant ADHD Medications
Stimulants are usually the first-line treatment for adult ADHD and work for most people. They start working within about an hour and come in short-acting and long-acting forms.
- Methylphenidate-based: such as Ritalin, Concerta and dexmethylphenidate (Focalin). Learn more about methylphenidate.
- Amphetamine-based: such as Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine).
Stimulants are Schedule II controlled substances because of their potential for misuse, so they have stricter prescribing rules.
Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications
Non-stimulants are an option if stimulants aren’t effective, cause side effects or aren’t a good fit because of other health factors. They usually take several weeks to reach full effect.
- Atomoxetine (Strattera), a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.
- Viloxazine (Qelbree), approved for children and adults.
- Guanfacine and clonidine extended-release, approved for children and sometimes used off-label in adults.
Non-stimulants are not controlled substances.
Stimulant vs. Non-Stimulant: Side-by-Side
| Stimulants | Non-stimulants | |
|---|---|---|
| Examples | Methylphenidate, amphetamine salts, lisdexamfetamine | Atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine ER |
| How fast they work | Within about an hour | Gradually, over several weeks |
| Controlled substance | Yes (Schedule II) | No |
| Common side effects | Reduced appetite, trouble sleeping, headache, increased heart rate | Nausea, fatigue, reduced appetite, dizziness |
| Often considered when | First-line treatment for most adults | Stimulants don’t work or aren’t a good fit |
Safety: What to Tell Your Provider
- Heart problems, high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease
- Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions
- Past or current substance use
- All medications and supplements you take, especially MAO inhibitors or antidepressants
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding or plans to become pregnant
Take ADHD medication only as prescribed, store it securely and never share it. Talk to your provider before changing your dose.
Non-Prescription Support
Some people add non-prescription focus and sleep supplements to support healthy routines. Supplements are not a substitute for ADHD medication or medical care. Browse them in our shop.
Start with an online ADHD assessment and a secure video visit. Prescriptions are only issued when clinically appropriate.
ADHD Medication FAQs
Prescription ADHD medication requires an evaluation by a licensed provider. If medication is appropriate, your provider sends a prescription to a licensed pharmacy. Our online store sells only non-prescription supplements.
Stimulants work faster and are effective for most adults, so they are usually tried first. Non-stimulants are a good option when stimulants aren’t effective or aren’t a good fit. Your provider will help you decide.
Both are stimulants. Adderall contains amphetamine salts, while Ritalin contains methylphenidate. They work in similar ways but some people respond better to one than the other.
Stimulants usually work within about an hour. Non-stimulants like atomoxetine can take several weeks to reach their full effect.
Find the right ADHD medication for you
A licensed provider will review your history and recommend treatment only when it is clinically appropriate.