Stimulant vs. Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication: Which Is Best?
ADHD is a common diagnosis, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to manage on a daily basis. Many people take medication to manage their symptoms, making it easier to get through the day. However, there’s no one treatment for ADHD, and you might need to do some trial-and-error with your psychiatrist to figure out which is best for you. Let’s discuss the two main types of ADHD medication, stimulants and non-stimulants, and learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of each.
What Are Stimulant Medications?
Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD and are considered a first-line approach by most doctors. They have been used for decades and have a long track record of effectiveness. These drugs work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps to improve focus and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks:
Benefits of Stimulants
Stimulant medications are popular for a reason. Here are some of their advantages:
- High Efficacy—Stimulants are highly effective, and most children and adults with ADHD see significant improvement in their symptoms.
- Fast-Acting—You’ll likely feel the effects of stimulant medications quickly, typically within 30 to 90 minutes of taking a dose. The rapid onset allows you to see right away whether the medication is really working.
- Variety of Formulations—Stimulants come in short-acting (immediate-release) and long-acting (extended-release) forms. Short-acting versions need to be taken multiple times a day, while long-acting ones can provide symptom coverage for 8 to 12 hours with a single dose. This variety makes stimulants a good option for people who need flexibility.
Potential Drawbacks and Side Effects
In addition to understanding how stimulants work for ADHD, it’s crucial to know the potential disadvantages of this medication type. While effective, stimulants can have side effects, including:
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
- Headaches
- Stomach upset or nausea
- Irritability or mood swings
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- The “rebound effect,” where symptoms briefly worsen as the medication wears off
What Are Non-Stimulant Medications?
Non-stimulant medications are an alternative for those who cannot take stimulants due to side effects, other medical conditions (like heart problems or anxiety disorders), or a history of substance abuse. They work differently from stimulants but also target the brain’s neurotransmitters. Here are a couple of examples of non-stimulant ADHD treatment options:
- Atomoxetine—This was the first non-stimulant approved for ADHD. It works by selectively increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain.
- Clonidine—Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, this medication can also help with ADHD symptoms. It works on a different part of the brain’s signaling system to improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
Benefits of Non-Stimulant ADHD Meds
While non-stimulants aren’t usually the first choice of ADHD medication, they do have some distinct benefits:
- 24-Hour Coverage—Unlike stimulants, which wear off, non-stimulants offer round-the-clock symptom control once they build up in your system.
- Lower Risk of Abuse—Because they are not controlled substances, non-stimulants have a much lower potential for abuse or dependence.
- Fewer Sleep Issues—Non-stimulants are less likely to interfere with sleep and may even be beneficial if you also struggle with insomnia.
- Anxiety Reduction—Some non-stimulants help reduce feelings of anxiety alongside ADHD symptoms.
Potential Drawbacks and Side Effects
The main disadvantage of non-stimulants is that they take longer to work. Sometimes, it takes several weeks of consistent use before you’ll see benefits. You will also have to watch out for these potential side effects:
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Decreased blood pressure
Making the Right Choice with Your Doctor
Choosing between stimulant and non-stimulant medication should never be taken lightly and requires lots of conversation with your doctor or psychiatrist. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and you may have to try a few different medications before you find one that works for you. Beyond looking at a comparison of ADHD medication side effects, your doctor will consider these factors before prescribing a medication:
- Your Symptoms—ADHD comes with several different symptoms, and the condition manifests differently among patients. Your doctor will need to know whether you deal with inattention, hyperactivity, or both.
- Your Medical History—Do you have any heart conditions, high blood pressure, or a history of anxiety or substance use? Your doctor will need to make sure your ADHD meds don’t interact poorly with other conditions.
- Your Lifestyle—Let your doctor know whether you’d prefer all-day coverage or just during work or school hours.
- Sensitivity to Side Effects—How well do you tolerate the potential side effects? Always tell your doctor if you’re concerned about a specific side effect. They may be able to avoid it with another ADHD medication.
Find the Right Option for You
Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications can be highly effective for ADHD, but it all depends on your specific circumstances. When you visit MindWell Urgent Care for help with ADHD, we’ll work with you to choose the best medication for you. We see Dallas, TX patients in person, but we can also chat with people in other parts of Texas, Oklahoma, New Jersey, Florida, and Kansas via telepsychiatry. Contact us today to get one step closer to ADHD relief.