ADHD medications help a person’s nervous system stay calm and focused. Medication is often looked at when a person is struggling to function and has tried other forms of therapy without significant improvement. Some people stay on these medications for years, others use them for a short period while making other changes to their lives.
Stimulant medications like Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and Vyvanse work on certain brain chemicals while non-stimulant medications like Strattera and Catapres work on a different set of chemicals in the brain. Often people will opt to start a non-stimulant for younger children/teens before trying stimulant options but this is a personal decision to make with your doctor based on your needs and symptoms.
There are possible side effects to any medication which you should review with your doctor before making a decision. Headaches, stomach aches, high blood pressure, decreased appetite, weight loss and insomnia may occur.