After the Diagnosis

Stimulants

• They are the most often used and the best-known types of ADHD medications.¹⁹ These medications are available in immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) forms. The effects of IR medications last for shorter periods and those of ER medications last longer. Some stimulants are available in combination forms that after taking help to reduce ADHD symptoms quicker and decrease symptoms longer throughout the day.
• Stimulants work quickly.¹⁹ Some take effect within 30 minutes of taking the dose. Others take effect after 60 to 90 minutes.²⁰
• Many people with ADHD respond to stimulants, and it’s estimated that between 65% and 75% of adults have fewer ADHD symptoms when they take stimulant medications.^{19, 20-22}
• The most common side effects with stimulants include sleep problems, decreased appetite, weight loss, increased blood pressure, fast heart rate, dizziness, headaches and stomachaches, rebound, moodiness and irritability, and nervousness.²²

Non-stimulants

• Non-stimulants do not work as quickly as stimulants, which means that when you first begin taking them, you may not notice any effects for a week or two, but their effect can last up to 24 hours.²⁰
• Non-stimulants can be combined with stimulants or used alone when patients develop side effects that cause them to stop taking stimulants (e.g., patients with heart disease or substance use disorder).²⁰
• Common side effects of non-stimulants include nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and dizziness.²³