Name of Drug | Classification Availability | Indication | Side Effects/Cautions | Contraindications | Dosage |
atomoxetine (Straterra) Generics Available | Non-Stimulant Readily available in both brand and generic forms. | Used to treat ADHD Generally, well tolerated in children. | constipation, insomnia, decreased appetite, and xerostomia | Should be taken in low doses alongside Celexa, Lexapro, and Prozac | Administered orally daily. Once or twice a day depending on the prescription. |
guanfacine (Intuniv) Generics Available | Non-Stimulant Readily available in both brand and generic forms. | Used to treat ADHD in children over 6. Generally, well tolerated in children. | drowsiness, fatigue, decreased blood pressure, hypotension, and sedated state | not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old | 1 mg orally once a day, either in the morning or evening, at approximately the same time each day; may adjust in increments of no more than 1 mg/week |
amphetamine sulfate (Adderall XR) Generics Available | Stimulant Readily available in both brand and generic forms. | Used to treat Narcolepsy and ADHD Generally well tolerated, most side effects appear within the first month and diminish over time. | headache, insomnia, weight loss, anorexia, and xerostomia | Cardiovascular Disease, Hyperthyroidism, arteriosclerosis, moderate to severe hypertension, glaucoma, history of drug abuse, use of MAOIs | In children with ADHD who are 6 - 12 years of age and are either starting treatment for the first time or switching from another medication, start with 10 mg once daily in the morning; daily dosage may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg or 10 mg at weekly intervals. |
dexmethylphenidate (Focalin) Generics Available | Stimulant Readily available in both brand and generic forms. | Used to treat ADHD Similar to Adderall with some studies claiming the superiority of Focalin for tolerability | fever, anxiety, loss of appetite, stomach pain, irritability, insomnia | hypersensitivity to methylphenidate, use of MAOIs | 5 mg daily (2.5 mg twice daily) with or without food. |
methylphenidate (Ritalin) Generics Available | Stimulant Readily available in both brand and generic forms. | Used to treat ADD, ADHD, and Narcolepsy Generally well tolerated, most side effects appear within the first month and diminish over time. | fast heartbeat, chest pain, fever, joint pain, skin rash, hives, trouble sleeping, headache | hypersensitivity to methylphenidate, use of MAOIs | Start with 5 mg orally twice daily (before breakfast and lunch). Increase dosage gradually, in increments of 5- to 10-mg weekly. A daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. |