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The main treatments for adding are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The medications can include stimulants such as amphetamine and methylphenidate, and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine, and clonidine.

The use of stimulants are not recommended for patients with active substance abuse problems but they can be considered in those who are in stable remission. Combination therapy using antidepressants, especially SSRIs, is another option.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain's synapses. This helps improve concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They might prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta or Ritalin) or amphetamines. They are both similar drugs. The type prescribed will depend on a person's individual biochemistry and how well they respond to the drug. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. The medicine will be effective if you notice improvements in your concentration, memory sleep, impulsivity, and sleep.

These medications can have side effects, including reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping, and may increase blood pressure and heart rate. People with medical conditions, like heart disease or high blood pressure should not use them. Stimulants have a high potential for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists or paediatricians or, in some instances, general practitioners, can prescribe stimulants. You can get them in the form or pills, tablets patches that can be applied to the skin or liquids.

Children and adolescents who consume stimulants often experience appetite problems and weight loss. If the dosage is too high, they may also develop tics. In this case, the doctor will reduce the dose to prevent the drug from causing more symptoms.

Stimulant medication is used by around 70 to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve after being treated. This is particularly the case for children with parents, teachers, or caregivers who have reported improvements.

Early use of stimulants could reduce the risk of developing substance use disorders in later life. Wilens and colleagues79,80 Katusic and colleagues81,82 and Biederman and colleagues83 discovered that treatment with stimulants decreases the risk for substance use disorders during adolescence, however the protective effect diminishes as we enter early adulthood.