ADHD Medication

Do I really need it?

Although they won’t cure ADHD, medications are considered an important aspect of treatment. They help improve the symptoms of ADHD by:

  • Improving attention
  • Decreasing impulsivity/hyperactivity

These improvements in turn allow a person with ADHD to use other treatment strategies more effectively, such as behavioural therapy and skills training.

How do medications for ADHD work?

Not all modes of action of ADHD medications are understood. However, many of them appear to help improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity by affecting certain brain chemicals, called neurotransmitters.

ADHD medications are either long-acting or short-/intermediate-acting.

LONG-ACTING ADHD MEDICATIONS

  • These are effective for longer periods of time and therefore usually require a single dose each day.

SHORT-ACTING ADHD MEDICATIONS

  • These are effective for a shorter period of time and usually require several doses spaced throughout the course of the day.

Learn more about how medications for ADHD work

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Medications currently used in Canada to treat ADHD

LONG-ACTING MEDICATIONS
MethylphenidatesAmphetaminesAtomoxetineGuanfacine
  • Concerta®
  • Biphentin®
  • Foquest®
  • Quillivant® ER
  • Adderall XR®
  • Vyvanse®
  • Strattera®
  • Intuniv XR®
SHORT-ACTING AND INTERMEDIATE-ACTING MEDICATIONS
MethylphenidatesAmphetamines
  • Ritalin®
  • Ritalin® SR
  • Dexedrine®
  • Dexedrine® Spansule
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Why did the pharmacist give me a generic medication?

Many drug plans have rules that limit payment for brand name medications once generic options are available. Based on provincial or territorial laws, pharmacies may automatically give you the generic version, even if you were previously taking the brand name medication. Talk to your pharmacist or physician if you have questions or for more information on your situation.

How does my doctor figure out which medication is right for me?

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What if my medication isn’t working the way that it should?

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Managing Side Effects

All medications come with some risk of side effects, but most of them can be managed. Know what to expect, and when to talk to your doctor about them.

Learn about common side effects

Trouble Sleeping with ADHD?

Sleep-related problems in ADHD, such as finding it harder to fall asleep, are common. Some medicines used to treat ADHD symptoms may contribute to the issue.

Why you shouldn’t take it lying down

Need Help Talking to Your Doctor about ADHD?

Are you exploring a possible ADHD diagnosis? Or have questions about your current ADHD treatment plan? Our Doctor Discussion Guides can help you get the conversation started.

Doctor Discussion Guides