February 2nd, 2026
We know diving into the world of medications can seem daunting at first. However, we’re here to help simplify and clarify everything you should know! This way you can focus on making informed decisions regarding your mental health and wellbeing.
When it comes to ADHD treatment, most people usually have treatment plans that combine medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and tailored strategies for navigating symptoms in daily life.
A key thing to note is that there is not a “one-size-fits-all” ADHD treatment plan, we are all unique. Some individuals may respond better to certain medication than others, and that’s ok! It’s important to be informed on your options, so you and your doctor can work together to build an effective treatment plan made to fit you.
Some people might hesitate to try medication treatments for themselves or their children due to misinformation and fearmongering. There’s plenty of myths surrounding ADHD and ADHD medications that can deter someone from starting treatment.
Today, we’ll debunk those myths, go over how ADHD medications work, the different types, and what you can expect. We’ll also cover common questions about ADHD medication, including whether they can be mixed with antidepressants and if over-the-counter alternatives can be beneficial.
In the end, the right treatment approach for you is going to be different than that of someone else. Keep reading to find out what you should know about ADHD medications!
ADHD medications work by elevating the levels of certain neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and norepinephrine) in your brain.[1] This targets symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
There’s more than one type of ADHD medication, with the primary types being stimulant and non-stimulant medications. Keep in mind that different medications for ADHD work in different ways. That’s why it’s important not to give up if the first medication you try doesn’t work or is not the right fit.
ADHD medications usually fall into two categories: stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications. However, other medications, like certain antidepressants, can be used off-label to address ADHD symptoms, too.
Stimulant medications for ADHD work quickly (within about 30-60 minutes). They are the most common type of medication used for ADHD. Research shows that ADHD stimulant medication improves symptoms for around 70% of adults and 70-80% of kids with the disorder.[2]
People with ADHD often struggle to hold interest in activities that require sustained focus. Stimulants increase brain activity, making these tasks more interesting and rewarding.[3] Rather than getting up and trying to look for something that seems more interesting than your current task, you may find that stimulant medications allow you to better concentrate and complete the tasks at hand.
These medications mainly work by rapidly increasing dopamine in the brain, this means you should begin to notice an increased ability to concentrate fairly quickly after taking the recommended dosage. Most people with ADHD try stimulant medication first.
Non-stimulants offer a different approach to managing ADHD symptoms. For instance, medications like Guanfacine work by activating specific receptors (alpha-2A) in the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for "executive functions." By strengthening these neural pathways, the medication helps improve sustained attention and impulse control while simultaneously calming physical hyperactivity.
Depending on an individual's specific needs, a doctor may prescribe non-stimulants on their own or as a "booster" alongside stimulant medications. It’s not uncommon to try a combination of both stimulant and non-stimulant medications depending on your needs.
Qelbree is another non-stimulant option and the first of its kind to manage ADHD by targeting a combination of three key neurotransmitters: norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. Although it works differently than other medications, the goal is still the same—to regulate these brain chemicals and strengthen the prefrontal cortex, helping to better manage ADHD symptoms.
Certain antidepressants can aid symptom management for some people with ADHD. Antidepressants prescribed off-label for ADHD may be a helpful option for:
Like other types of medication for ADHD, these work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.
What’s the difference between stimulant vs. non-stimulant ADHD medications? Here are the two main things to keep in mind:
You might try non-stimulant medications for several reasons. For instance, certain stimulant medication side effects may make non-stimulant medications a better option for some.
Many people describe a newfound sense of clarity when they start taking ADHD medications. There’s often a reduction in constant background noise and overlapping thoughts, allowing you to think more clearly, filter distractions, and focus on one thing at a time.
The effects of these medications may vary depending on the type of medication you take and how your unique physiology responds to it. That said, ADHD medications often help with:
While ADHD medication doesn’t magically create organization skills or productivity, it can boost executive function and help calm the brain. This makes it easier for people with ADHD to apply strategies that help improve their time management, organizational skills, and more.
Finding the right medication is a highly personalized process, so understanding the different options available can help you and your provider collaborate on a treatment plan that fits you. Here is a list of common ADHD medications:
Finding the best approach to ADHD treatment is a process for everyone. For some, it takes longer than others. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Your provider should work with you closely to monitor your symptoms and gauge the efficacy of your medication. Be open and honest with your doctor about what you would ideally want from the medications.
Let them know if there are certain side effects you are not open to exploring and why, the more you communicate with your doctor the better.
Wondering how to get ADHD medication? If you’ve never had ADHD medication prescribed to you before, you might be wondering how this process goes. For those who suspect that they have ADHD but don’t yet have a diagnosis, completing a full diagnostic evaluation is the first step.
Once you have an ADHD diagnosis, you can make an appointment to discuss the need of medications and build a treatment plan. Your initial appointment with a prescriber will generally begin with a history-taking session.
They’ll get to know you and might ask questions like “Have you tried any medications for ADHD in the past?” You can discuss any concerns you have about starting ADHD medication, like potential side effects, at that time (or at any point).
It’s vital to be open with your doctor. Once you start medication, make sure to schedule follow-up appointments to track and monitor your progress. This way, your provider can provide valuable feedback and help you adjust your medication management routine as needed.
Every medication has its own unique list of side effects that your doctor or provider will review with you before starting treatment. It’s worth noting that all medications—even over-the-counter options—carry a potential risk of side effects; it’s simply part of the process as you and your doctor find the right fit for you.
To help you be better informed, we’ve listed the side effects most commonly seen with ADHD medications.
Tell your prescriber right away if you notice any serious side effects. They should go over a complete list with you and tell you about any rare or severe adverse reactions to look out for.
Evidence strongly supports that ADHD medication can actually prevent substance use disorders in people who have ADHD.[4] There are multiple reasons for this. When your ADHD is managed properly, it’s likely that you will have better mental health and an improved quality of life.
With symptoms managed, people are less apt to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.
That said, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the DEA due to their high potential for abuse and dependence.
This means that there is a potential for people to misuse and develop an addiction to stimulants that treat ADHD. Looking out for the signs of addiction, like using amounts higher than you were prescribed, can aid early detection and prevention.
We encourage you to have an honest and open conversation with your provider about any addiction or substance abuse concerns you may have before starting treatment or anytime during treatment.
Yes. You can be on antidepressants and ADHD medication at the same time. In fact, ADHD frequently co-occurs with depression, so this is a common experience.
There’s more than one type of antidepressant. Some medications used for depression may interact with certain ADHD medications.
Before prescribing a new medication, your healthcare provider will check for any potential medication interactions and review possible risks with you. For example, MAOIs (an older, less common class of antidepressants) shouldn’t be taken within 14 days of most ADHD medications.
Combining certain medications, including some newer antidepressants, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Regularly scheduled appointments with your provider, completing lab work as needed, and speaking up about any side effects you have can help you avoid any possible complications.
No, you don’t have to stay on ADHD medication forever. But, there’s no shame if you do. People can take ADHD medication short-term or long-term: if you choose to get off at any point, your doctor can help.
Ultimately, taking medication for ADHD is a highly personal choice. Everyone’s bodies and minds react differently. The best approach for you might not be the right one for someone else or vice versa. There are other treatment options that help many people with ADHD manage symptoms without medication.
No. There are no over-the-counter ADHD medications. There’s limited research on supplements for ADHD, which can be bought over the counter and do not require a prescription. Some people with ADHD find that supplements like fish oil, zinc, or magnesium are beneficial parts of their daily routines.
If you take any over-the-counter medications or any supplements, be sure to inform your doctor. While they’re generally safe, side effects, toxicity, and interactions with prescription drugs are possible. For example, certain supplements can raise your risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
A lot of people feel frustrated if the first medication they try doesn’t work. Keep in mind, this is a common–and an expected–part of the process. Rather than jumping from one doctor to another, it’s important to find a provider you can stick with and trust. That way, they can help you explore your options and find the right fit.
If you switch doctors immediately after a medication fails, you often end up having to start from zero every time, delaying the process. By sticking with one provider, you allow them to use those initial "failures" as data points to narrow down exactly what your brain needs, ultimately speeding up the timeline to finding a good fit.
Clarity Clinic provides comprehensive ADHD testing, therapy, and medication management services for children, adolescents, and adults in IL. Whether you are just beginning your ADHD journey and are looking to get a diagnosis, want a second opinion on a current treatment plan, or already have a diagnosis and are looking to establish care, we are here to help.
With convenient locations in the Loop, River North, Lakeview Belmont, Lakeview Broadway, Evanston, and Arlington Heights, expert care is never far away. If you prefer the comfort of your own home, we also offer online appointments for added flexibility.
Our team of dedicated ADHD specialists is ready to help you through every step of your journey.
Click the button below to begin browsing our selection of mental health providers and find the right fit for you today!
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References
[1] U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.-a). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medications for adults. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK610422/
[2] Advokat, C., & Scheithauer, M. (2013, May 29). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) stimulant medications as cognitive enhancers. Frontiers in neuroscience. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3666055/
[3] Kopf, J. (2025, December 24). Stimulant ADHD medications work differently than thought. WashU Medicine. https://medicine.washu.edu/news/stimulant-adhd-medications-work-differently-than-thought/
[4] Quinn, P. D., Chang, Z., Hur, K., Gibbons, R. D., Lahey, B. B., Rickert, M. E., Sjölander, A., Lichtenstein, P., Larsson, H., & D’Onofrio, B. M. (2017). ADHD medication and substance-related problems. American Journal of Psychiatry, 174(9), 877–885. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.16060686
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