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ADHD Medication
ADHD medications typically work by increasing the availability of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve attention and impulse control.
ADHD medications typically work by increasing the availability of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve attention and impulse control. Used for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults.
At a glance
| Generic name | ADHD Medication |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Stimulant, Concerta, Ritalin, Focalin, Vyvanse |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital |
| Drug class | Psychostimulant or non-stimulant ADHD agent |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Psychiatry/Neurology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Most marketed ADHD medications are either stimulants (amphetamines or methylphenidate) that increase dopamine and norepinephrine release, or non-stimulants (atomoxetine, guanfacine, clonidine) that modulate these neurotransmitter systems. These mechanisms enhance prefrontal cortex function, improving executive function, focus, and behavioral regulation in patients with ADHD.
Approved indications
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Common side effects
- Insomnia or sleep disturbance
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Elevated heart rate or blood pressure
Key clinical trials
- Benefits of ADHD Treatment in Detained People (PHASE3)
- Predictors of Improvements in Irritability and Aggression in Children With ADHD Treated With CNS Stimulants (PHASE4)
- The TEAM Study - Treatment Efficacy for Autism/Attention Using Mixed Amphetamine (PHASE4)
- Expectant Moms Managing Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (NA)
- Ongoing Tai Chi Training for Children With ADHD (NA)
- Safety and Efficacy of Low Dose MM120 for ADHD Proof of Concept Trial (PHASE2)
- Improving the Outcomes of Adolescents With ADHD Via a Pre-visit Question Prompt List/Video Intervention (NA)
- Outcomes of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Interventions Provided by Unlicensed Professionals (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- ADHD Medication CI brief — competitive landscape report
- ADHD Medication updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Massachusetts General Hospital portfolio CI