ADHD medicines fall into two families: stimulants (amphetamine-based and methylphenidate-based) and non-stimulants. Within each family, the biggest practical differences are how long a dose lasts, whether it is a controlled substance, and how it is taken. Use the filters below to compare the most commonly prescribed options.
About this tool: based on FDA prescribing information, checked in 2026. It is for comparison only. ADHD medicines must be prescribed and monitored by a clinician. See our medical disclaimer.
Stimulants vs non-stimulants
Stimulants are the first-line treatment for ADHD in most children over 6, teens and adults, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and other major guidelines. They work quickly, usually within 30 to 60 minutes, and about 70 to 80 percent of people respond well to either an amphetamine or a methylphenidate product. Someone who does not respond to one family often responds to the other.
Non-stimulants work more slowly, over several weeks, and on average have a smaller effect. But they are not controlled substances, carry no misuse potential, and provide steady 24-hour coverage. They are a good fit when stimulants cause intolerable side effects, when there is a history of substance misuse, or when certain other conditions such as tics or anxiety are present. Guanfacine and clonidine are often added to a stimulant.
Amphetamine vs methylphenidate
Both increase dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain. Amphetamines also push these chemicals out of nerve endings, while methylphenidate mainly blocks their reuptake. A 2018 network meta-analysis in The Lancet Psychiatry found methylphenidate was the preferred first choice for children and adolescents, and amphetamines for adults, based on the balance of effectiveness and tolerability. Individual response varies a lot, so the “best” one is the one that works for you with the fewest side effects.
Common side effects
- Stimulants: reduced appetite, trouble sleeping, headache, stomach ache, irritability as the dose wears off (“rebound”), and small increases in heart rate and blood pressure. In children, growth is monitored because stimulants can slightly slow it.
- Atomoxetine and viloxazine: nausea, tiredness, reduced appetite and, rarely, liver problems (atomoxetine). Both have a boxed warning about suicidal thoughts in children and teens.
- Guanfacine and clonidine: drowsiness, low blood pressure and dizziness. Stopping suddenly can cause rebound high blood pressure.
Safety: what the labels warn about
All stimulants are Schedule II controlled substances with a boxed warning about abuse, misuse and addiction, updated by the FDA in 2023. They should be stored securely and never shared. Before starting, clinicians ask about heart conditions and family history of sudden cardiac death. Stimulants and MAO inhibitors must never be combined. Alcohol is a particular concern with some extended-release stimulant capsules, which can release medicine too quickly when taken with alcohol. See our Ritalin and alcohol guide.
Shortages and generics
Stimulant shortages have affected U.S. pharmacies since 2022. Generic lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) became available in 2023, and generics exist for most immediate- and extended-release amphetamine and methylphenidate products. If your usual product is unavailable, your pharmacist and prescriber can often switch you to an equivalent formulation.
Related reading
- Vyvanse vs Focalin
- Concerta vs Strattera
- Mydayis vs Vyvanse
- Qelbree vs Strattera
- Evekeo vs Adderall
- Desoxyn vs Adderall
- Strattera vs Wellbutrin
Frequently asked questions
What is the longest-lasting ADHD medication?
Among stimulants, Mydayis lasts up to about 16 hours. Non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, viloxazine and extended-release guanfacine provide continuous 24-hour coverage once they reach full effect.
Is Vyvanse stronger than Adderall?
Not stronger, but smoother and longer-lasting for many people. Vyvanse is converted to dextroamphetamine gradually in the blood, so it tends to have a steadier onset and offset than immediate-release Adderall.
Which ADHD medicine is not a controlled substance?
Atomoxetine (Strattera), viloxazine (Qelbree), extended-release guanfacine (Intuniv) and extended-release clonidine (Kapvay) are not controlled substances.
Can adults take Qelbree?
Yes. Qelbree was first approved for children aged 6 to 17 and was approved for adults in 2022.
Sources
- Prescribing information for each medicine listed, DailyMed
- Cortese S, et al. Comparative efficacy and tolerability of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents, and adults. Lancet Psychiatry. 2018. PubMed
- Wolraich ML, et al. Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2019. PubMed
- FDA requires updates to clarify boxed warning about abuse, addiction and dependence of prescription stimulants. FDA, 2023
About this article
Written by the Health Linear Editorial Team from primary sources such as FDA prescribing information, DailyMed, NIH and peer-reviewed studies, which are linked in the article. Last updated October 27, 2026.
Read our editorial process and medical disclaimer. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.