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adhd stimulant medication

  • ​This group of medications has treated ADHD for many decades. 
  • Stimulant medications work for 70% to 80% of people.
  • These medicines can help you focus your thoughts and ignore distractions. They’re used to treat moderate and severe ADHD and they can be helpful for children, teens, and adults who have a hard time at school, work, or home. 

ADHD stimulant medication side effects

​There are potential side effects for all medications, including those for ADHD. 

Most people don’t experience any, or if they do, they are short-lived (1-3 days) or mild. 

Some side effects, that can occur, can be frustrating and result in your consideration of another medication that may be more suitable. Side effects from ADHD stimulant medication can include:
  • loss of appetite while the medication is in effect, and weight loss due to this 
  • sleep problems (usually if the medication is taken too late in the day), or 
  • crankiness when the medication wears off and tics. 

In New Zealand, Medsafe safety advisers advise that specialists are also concerned that all amphetamine and methylphenidate stimulants used for ADHD may make heart and psychiatric problems more likely.

Stimulant medications to treat ADHD

Here's a list of the 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
Dexamphetamine
Dexamphetamine sulphate
Tablets
Check for drug interactions and side effects
Vyvanse
Lisdexamfetamine dimesilate
Capsules
Check for drug interactions and side effects
​Methylphenidate Extended Release (Teva)
Tablets
Check for drug interactions and side effects
Methylphenidate hydrochloride
Concerta
Tablets
Check for ​for drug interactions and side effects
Methylphenidate hydrochloride
Ritalin
Tablets/capsules
​Check for ​for drug interactions and side effects
Methylphenidate hydrochloride
Rubifen
Tablets
​Check for ​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
  • 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
      • ADHD in schools
    • 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
    • Our People
    • Help Us By Volunteering
    • Contact Us
    • Sponsors
    • ADHD Ambassador