ADHD medications

ADHD medications treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in brain regions governing attention and impulse control. They fall into two broad groups: stimulants, the first-line therapy for most patients, and non-stimulants.

The stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and the amphetamines, including mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall) and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), a prodrug converted to dextroamphetamine in the body. Both classes block reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, and amphetamines also promote their release. Because of their abuse potential, stimulant ADHD drugs are Schedule II controlled substances — prescriptions cannot be refilled, and pharmacies must follow strict ordering, storage, and recordkeeping rules.

Non-stimulant options include atomoxetine (Strattera), a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor with no abuse potential, and the alpha-2 adrenergic agonists guanfacine and clonidine. Common stimulant side effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, weight loss, and increases in heart rate and blood pressure.

The PTCE tests ADHD medications within nervous system drug classifications — expect questions matching brand and generic names and identifying their Schedule II status — while USMLE Step 1 behavioral science tests the mechanisms of stimulants and atomoxetine and first-line treatment choices.