Stimulants and Other ADHD Medicines
The chapter on adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medicines discusses and reviews the use of psychostimulants (such as methylphenidate and amphetamines), and nonstimulants (such as atomoxetine, guanfacine, and clonidine). It reviews their mechanisms of action, clinical characteristics, potential medication interactions, and adverse effects. It further reviews stimulants’ risk of misuse and dependence. The chapter also briefly discusses complementary and alternative pharmacotherapies. It includes an in-depth review of the clinical use of these medications for ADHD (particularly in college students) and for other psychiatric disorders (such as binge-eating disorder) and other medical disorders. It also discusses the use of ADHD medicines in women of childbearing age, notably for pregnancy and breastfeeding considerations. Finally, the chapter includes a table of ADHD medicines that includes each medicine’s generic and brand names, usual adult doses, pertinent clinical comments, black box warnings, and Food and Drug Administration indications.