Some of the most popular ADHD medications for adults are
Vyvanse became the most popular ADHD medication instead of Adderall Xr for my adult patients when it became available in July 2007.
There are 3 reasons why Vyvanse is preferred
Vyvanse lasts as long as 18 hours versus 7 to 10 hours for Adderall Xr. Short-acting Adderall is the most popular drug for patients who have to pay for their medication themselves. Vyvanse and Adderall Xr usually costs $5 to $7/pill. Short-acting Adderall costs $.35 per pill at Kroger or $.40 per pill at CVS with a discount card we provide our patients.
Dexedrine Spansule, dextroamphetamine, Focalin, and Focalin Xr are not the most popular ADHD medications such as the ones above. They are all in the highly effective stimulant family of ADHD medications as all those listed above.
The most popular ADHD medication for children was Ritalin for years. Adult ADHD patients frequently object to considering Ritalin because they believe it would only work in children. Ritalin and the long-acting form, Concerta, work just as well in adult ADHD as for children.
Less popular ADHD medications are Strattera and Wellbutrin. These medications help 50 to 70% of patients versus all the above described stimulant family of ADHD medications that help 80 to 90% of patients. Strattera and Wellbutrin also have the disadvantage that it takes 1 to 3 months to get the full benefit.
Daytrana, long-acting Ritalin in a patch for topical skin application, is probably less popular because of a significant incidence of skin reactions.
If you would like to be evaluated for one of the most popular ADHD medications or a less popular option, call Dr. Hege’s office today at 770-458-0007.