Stimulants for ADHD: How Do They Work?

Written by:

Rabia Khaliq

MSc in Applied Psychology

Medical Reviewer:

Umar Javed

Medical Writer

Updated: 01.13.2023

Medical Disclaimer

The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not guarantee that they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. This list is not exhaustive, and healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs. Read more

The best way to treat ADHD is with a combination of treatment approaches. They may include medication, psychotherapy, dietary changes, and additional education on ADHD.

ADHD medications are used to complement other behavioral and lifestyle improvements. The most typical class of medication used to treat this disorder is stimulants. They function by enhancing the performance of a few specific chemicals available in the brain, which improves the efficiency of the brain’s neural circuits. Continue reading to find out how stimulants for ADHD work and what negative effects they may have.

What will work for you—stimulants or non-stimulants? Consult a mental health expert.

What are Stimulants?

The stimulant class of drugs [1*] accelerates the transmission of signals between the brain and body. People may be more awakened, alert, energized, or confident when they use them. Stimulants come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, small chunks of transparent crystals, and a white or brownish powder resembling crystals with a strong odor and harsh taste. They are typically taken orally, and the duration of their effects varies by type. Amphetamines, cocaine, nicotine, caffeine, and nicotine are all examples of substances in the stimulant category.

ADHD stimulants are prescribed medications. Stimulants used to treat ADHD were added to Schedule II in 2001 due to their higher risk of abuse and misuse. The DEA states [2*] that a substance has “a high potential for abuse, with usage potentially leading to serious psychological or physical dependence” if it is under Schedule II. When used improperly, these medicines are likewise regarded as dangerous.

Examples of ADHD Stimulant Medications

Below is the list of FDA-approved ADHD stimulants.

Drugs (Brand name)	Active Ingredient
Concerta	Methylphenidate
Focalin	Methylphenidate
Ritalin	Methylphenidate
Azstarys	Methylphenidate
Adderall	Amphetamine
Vyvanse	Amphetamine
Dexedrine	Amphetamine
Mydayis	Amphetamine

What Do Stimulants Do?

Stimulants mainly affect the level of catecholamines [3*] (dopamine, noradrenaline, epinephrine) in the brain, resulting in heightened alertness and focus, more energy, and improved well-being. Dopamine is linked with motivation, pleasure, focus, and better physical activity. Stimulant medicines help many ADHD sufferers concentrate and focus better while lowering hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. However, due to these drugs’ mechanism of action, the user can experience a crash or comedown when the effects of stimulants wear off.

Long-acting Stimulants vs. Short-acting Stimulants

Stimulant medications for ADHD come in both short-acting and long-acting forms [4*] . Short-acting stimulants require multiple daily doses and reach their peak effects quickly. Extended-release or long-acting stimulants typically only require a person to take one daily dose, and their effect lasts 8 to 12 hours.

As persons with ADHD sometimes struggle to remember to take their medications, the long-acting types of ADHD medication are therefore preferred by doctors. It is simpler and more practical to take one dose every day.

ADHD treatment is now just a click away. Click the button below to speak with an ADHD expert online!

How Much Time Does a Stimulant Last in Your System?

The dosage you take and the drug’s strength as well as your metabolism, age, and general state of health are some variables that will affect how long a stimulant will stay in your system. For example, amphetamines, which comprise the majority of ADHD drugs, often have a half-life of fewer than 11 hours while methamphetamine has a longer half-life of about 12 hours. The ‘high effects’ of methamphetamines can persist for up to eight hours.

Side Effects of Stimulants for ADHD

ADHD medications sometimes cause mild to severe side effects. The most frequent negative consequences [5*] of stimulants could be:

Reduction in appetite
Loss of weight
Headaches
Anxiety
Irritability
Uneasy stomach
Mood changes
Depression
Heart problems
Dizziness
Addiction

Contacting a mental health professional is the initial step to receiving ADHD treatment. Obtain your ADHD prescriptions online from licensed physicians.

Stimulants Withdrawal

Like most medicines, stimulants can create withdrawal symptoms [6*] when used for a long time and stopped suddenly. The most typical withdrawal signs and symptoms are listed below:

Anxiety
Panic attacks
Angry and moody behavior
Seizures
Extreme tiredness
Increase appetite
Insomnia
Difficulty paying attention

Wrap Up

Even with all the information, it isn’t always simple to decide whether or not to take ADHD medication. Don’t make a snap choice if you’re on the fence about using stimulants for ADHD. Spend some time consulting a medical professional for the best decision-making process.

Sources

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6 sources

Stimulants. (2023)
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Controlled Substance Schedules
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Stimulants. (2023)
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Short-acting versus Long-acting Medications for the Treatment of ADHD. (2008)
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Using Stimulants for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Clinical Approaches and Challenges. (2013)
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Stimulant withdrawal. (1994)
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