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Common Medications
Generic Drug Effectiveness
Changing ADHD Medications
Payment Assistance
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Although many brand-name drugs are available to help treat ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), generic alternatives can be more affordable. For this reason, many insurance providers even require them. Here’s the rundown on a few of the most common generic medications used to treat ADHD.
Common ADHD Medications
Common ADHD medications fall into two main categories: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulant ADHD Medications
The XR, ER, and LA designations indicate extended-release preparations.
Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications
Non-stimulant ADHD medicationsare typically prescribed for ADHD treatment when someone does not respond well to stimulant drugs. Non-stimulants include:
The FDA reports that the cost of generic medications is typically around 85% less than that of brand-name options when multiple generics for the same drug are available.In many instances, switching to generic medications can save hundreds or thousands of dollars on ADHD treatment each year.
How Parents Can Save Money on ADHD Medications
Are Generic ADHD Drugs Effective?
Notably, the FDA withdrew approval of two generic versions of Concerta (methylphenidate hydrochloride) extended-release (ER) capsules because they failed to demonstrate the same therapeutic effect as the brand-name version.
Like any other medication, a generic drug might produce different reactions in some people than the brand-name equivalent (or vice versa). Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to any changes when switching ADHD medications.
Bring up anything you notice—including side effects—to your healthcare provider so they can adjust your dosage or type of medication. ADHD is a highly individual condition that requires individualized treatment.
ADHD Medication Side EffectsSome of the most commonADHD medication side effectsinclude decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, anxiety, upset stomach, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate.If these effects don’t go away after a couple of weeks or are bothersome, talk with the prescribing physician about your options.
ADHD Medication Side Effects
Some of the most commonADHD medication side effectsinclude decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, anxiety, upset stomach, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate.If these effects don’t go away after a couple of weeks or are bothersome, talk with the prescribing physician about your options.
Payment Support for ADHD Medications
Your physician might offer the option of a generic equivalent to lower the cost of your ADHD medications. Many large pharmacy retailers offer value formularies—lists of medication alternatives that can be prescribed at lower cost. Prescription assistance programs are also available in many communities.
In Summary
Treating ADHD with medications often requires patience andopen conversations with your healthcare provider. Discuss any concerns regarding the cost, side effects, and effectiveness of your ADHD treatment to help them determine the best treatment for you.
5 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Stimulant ADHD medications: methylphenidate and amphetamines.
Shier AC, Reichenbacher T, Ghuman HS, Ghuman JK.Pharmacological treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: clinical strategies.J Cent Nerv Syst Dis. 2013;5:1-17. doi:10.4137/JCNSD.S6691
Food and Drug Administration.Generic drug facts.
Cleveland Clinic.ADHD medication.
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