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adhd non-stimulant medication

In cases where stimulants don’t work or cause unpleasant side effects, non-stimulants might help.

Non-stimulant medications may not work as well as stimulants but can improve symptoms like concentration and impulse control.

These medications usually take a while to start working. It could be several weeks before you feel the full effects.  

ADHD non-stimulant medication side effects

Some non-stimulant medications have some added precautions. 

For those who are also depressed, low, and completely flat as a result, then as the medication begins to work, it can increase activity levels before it increases mood and, as such can create an added risk of suicide. This added risk:
  • only relates to those with depression characterised by low energy. 
  • is uncommon and affects a small and specific group of those who may take this medication. 

If this is the case, the prescribing specialist will need to monitor the patient more closely, and supervision to ensure safety is advised until the lifting effects of the medication come into effect for the first few weeks.  

Most have few side effects, but some can experience side effects from ADHD non-stimulant medication that include:
  • fatigue
  • upset stomach
  • dry mouth, and
  • nausea. 

Blood pressure can also rise when you stop taking this medication, but this does usually return to normal fairly quickly.

​If these occur, speak to your specialist, as it may mean that this is not the correct medication for you.

Non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD

​Here's a list of the non-stimulant medication options used to treat ADHD in New Zealand.

There are other options available. Generally, other options are prescribed to treat ADHD and a co-existing condition(s).
​Brand name
​Active ingredient
​Form
Links to MedSafe NZ datasheets
Strattera
Atomoxetine
Capsules
Check for drug interactions and side effects
Vyvanse
Lisdexamfetamine dimesilate
Capsules
Check for drug interactions and side effects

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  • What is ADHD?
    • Adults with ADHD
    • Children and teens with ADHD
    • ADHD is more common than you think
    • Why it's good to have ADHD
    • Inspiring stories from people with ADHD
    • News and Research on ADHD
  • Have you got ADHD?
    • Think you're an adult with ADHD?
    • Think your child has ADHD?
    • How to get a diagnosis for ADHD >
      • Getting an assessment and diagnosis for ADHD
      • Self screening assessment tool for adults who suspect that they have ADHD​
    • Co-Morbidities
    • FAQs
  • Succeed with ADHD
    • Access ADHD Healthcare Professionals >
      • The Different Types of Healthcare Professionals
    • Managing ADHD >
      • Families living with ADHD >
        • Tips on how to support children with ADHD
        • Parent Support is a Phone Call Away
      • ADHD in schools
      • ADHD in tertiary education organisations >
        • FAQs for staff at tertiary education organisations
        • Feedback from staff at tertiary education organisations
      • Tips for adults managing life and ADHD
    • ADHD Medication >
      • ADHD Stimulant Medication
      • ADHD Non-Stimulant Medication
      • ADHD Anti-Depressant Medication
    • ADHD Support Organisations
    • Become a member of ADHD NZ's community >
      • ADHD Wellington
      • Events and promotions
      • Vlogs, blogs and ADHD news
  • About Us
    • ADHD NZ 2021: past, present and future
    • Our People
    • Help Us By Volunteering
    • Contact Us
    • Sponsors
    • ADHD Ambassador