Medications for Attention Deficit Disorder
Hilliard Pediatrics, Inc. - Dr. Tim Teller, MD
Stimulants
These medications are the most commonly used for treatment of ADD and ADHD. These are "controlled prescriptions" which cannot be called into the pharmacy and refills cannot be on the prescription. We have to hand write or electronically send the prescription. The medicine is usually dosed as a 30 day supply, but can sometimes be dosed as a 90 day supply based on your insurance.
Medication Strengths Hours it Works Dosing Information Notes
Adderall (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine) 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, & 30 mg tablets 6-8 hours (1-2 doses per day) Scored tablets and multiple pill strengths give great dosing flexibility Must be swallowed whole. Increasing the dose increases how long the dose lasts.
Adderall XR (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine) 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, & 30 mg capsules 10-12 hours (1 dose a day) Once daily dosing possible. Some children will need a short-acting dose late in the day. Can be opened and contents swallowed with applesauce. Less effective if taken with a large fatty meal.
Concerta (methylphenidate) 18, 27, 36, & 54 mg tablets 12 hours (1 dose a day) Once daily dosing often possible. Some children will need a short-acting dose late in the day (4-6pm). Must be swallowed whole. Not affected by food. Increasing level in system late in the afternoon. Generic available.
Daytrana Patch (methylphenidate transdermal system) 10, 15, 20, & 30 mg patches For as long as it is worn PLUS 3 hours Once daily patch worn at the hip area. Worn as a patch. Removed late in the day.
Dynavel XR (amphetamine) 2.5 mg/mL suspension 13 hours (1 dose a day) Once daily dosing A syringe and special bottle allow for accurate dosing.
Evekeo (amphetamine) 5 and 10 mg scored tablets 4-6 hours (2-3 doses a day) Two or more doses needed each day. Must be swallowed whole.
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) 2.5, 5, & 10 mg tablets 4-6 hours (2-3 doses a day) Two or more doses needed each day. Smaller doses over-all may reduce side effects. The "effective half" (isomer) of Ritalin. Must be swallowed whole.
Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate) 5, 10, & 20 mg capsules 10-12 hours (1 dose per day) One daily dose often possible. See above about side effects. Can be opened and contents swallowed with applesauce.
Mydayis (amphetamine) 12.5, 25, 37.5, and 50 mg capsules 14-16 hours (1 dose per day) One daily dose. Swallowed whole. Only for 13 years of age and above.
Ritalin (methylphenidate) 5, 10, & 20 mg tablets 4 hours (2-4 doses a day) Multiple doses throughout the day required. Can be used as late-day dose with other meds. Must be swallowed whole. Generic tablet available.
Quillichew ER (methylphenidate) 20, 30, & 40 mg tablets (20mg and 30mg are scored) 8-10 hours (1-2 doses per day) Once daily dose often possible. A second dose may be needed. Should be chewed and swallowed.
Quillivant Suspension (methylphenidate) 25 mg/5 mL liquid 10-12 hours Once daily each morning A syringe and special bottle allow for accurate dosing.
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, & 70 mg capsules 12 hours Once daily each morning Can be swallowed whole or the entire contents of the capsule dissolved in a glass of water and drank immediately.
Non-Stimulants
These medications are not related to the stimulants, but have also been shown to help for ADD and ADHD. These medications are not controlled substances and can be called in or sent electronically to the pharmacy. Refills may be on these prescriptions.
| Medication | Strengths | Hours it Works | Dosing Information | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strattera (atomoxetine) | 18, 25, 40, & 60 mg capsules | 10-12 hours (1 dose a day) | Once daily dosing possible. | Must be swallowed whole. |
| Intuniv (guanfacine) | 1, 2, 3, and 4 mg tablets | All day (24 hours) | Once daily each morning. | Must be swallowed whole. |
| Kapvay (clonidine hydrochloride) | 0.1, 0.2 mg tablets | 12-14 hours | Twice a day. | Must be swallowed whole. |
Intuniv is an extended-release form of guanfacine, a medication that has been available for years. This medication treats ADD/ADHD symptoms, but it is most effective for children with ADD/ADHD who are particularly disruptive, difficult to deal with, who argue with others frequently, and with temper outbursts. The dose is based on the weight and can take as long as 2 weeks to begin working.
Kapvay is an extended-release form of clonidine for ADD/ADHD. It can be used as the only treatment, but more commonly it is used as the second medication in addition to Concerta, Vyvanse, or Adderall XR.
Last Updated: 07/2019