ADHD DRUGS

Ritalin

• stimulant

• Contains methylphenidate (active ingredient)

    ❖ Agonistic properties: more neurotransmitter left in the synapse

        ➢ Blocks reuptake of DA and NE

        ➢ Slightly increases release of DA and NE

    ❖ *is a non-amphetamine drug

    ❖ Concerta (SR)

        ➢ SR: sustained release form of Ritalin

        ➢    Also contains methylphenidate (active ingredient)

        ➢ Slower release and prolonged effects

        ➢ First half of the pill dissolves faster, second half dissolves slowly

❖ Focalin (XR)

    ➢ XR: extended release form of Ritalin

    ➢ Contains dexmethylphenidate (active ingredient)

    ➢ Stronger, smaller doses than ritalin needed to work effectively

Adderall

    ❖ More commonly prescribed for ADHD patients

    ❖ Racemic amphetamine: combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine

    ❖ Vyvanse

        ➢ Contains lisdexamfetamine (active ingredient)

        ➢ Long-lasting effects

        ➢ Lower potential for abuse

❖ Dexedrine

        ➢ Contains dextroamphetamine (active ingredient)

        ➢ Chemically similar to Adderall

Strattera

    ❖ Non stimulant drug

    ❖ NE reuptake inhibitor

Ritalin Side Effects

❖ Stunts growth

❖ Appetite reduction

❖ Rebounds in hyperactivity

❖ Headaches

❖ Irritability in the GI tract

❖ Sleep problems

❖ Slight BP increases

Adderall Side Effects

❖ Tachycardia: 100+ BPM

❖ BP increases

❖ Increases in psychomotor

activity

❖ GI upset

❖ Weight loss

Using ADHD Drugs Without a Diagnosis

❖ Potential to not recall information well

❖ Risks of overstimulation

❖ Cognitive functioning can be impaired

    ➢ Cognitive performance declines after excessive arousal +

overstimulation

❖ Withdrawal symptoms

❖ Risk of becoming dependent