| Drug Category | Drug Name(s) | Drug Type | FDA Approval Status for ADHD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription Stimulants | Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), Amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine) | Stimulant | FDA-approved | First-line treatments that increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. |
| Prescription Non-stimulants | Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine (Intuniv), Clonidine (Kapvay), Viloxazine | Non-stimulant | FDA-approved | Options for patients who do not tolerate stimulants; affect norepinephrine or alpha-2 receptors. |
| Emerging Prescription Drug | Centanafadine | Non-stimulant (NDSRI) | Under FDA review (Phase 3 trials) | Affects dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin; low abuse potential; phase 3 trial positive. |
| Off-label Drugs | Modafinil (Provigil), Armodafinil (Nuvigil), Bupropion, Tricyclic Antidepressants | Various | Not FDA-approved for ADHD | Used off-label to improve focus and energy; lower abuse potential than stimulants. |
| Over-the-Counter (OTC) | Caffeine, amino acids, antioxidants, iron, zinc supplements | Supplements | Not FDA-approved for ADHD | May help ease symptoms or complement prescription meds, but not substitute for them. |
REMINDER: Not everyone with ADHD needs to take pharmaceuticals.
Disclaimer: Our content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur. Content may be generated with artificial intelligence tools, which can produce inaccuracies. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently. In some situations, the information offered may lead to unintended or negative consequences. THIS CHART HAS NOT BEEN MEDICALLY REVIEWED.
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