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The drugs usually prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are generally effective and safe. Most children and teenagers (60 percent to 80 percent) who take them become less hyperactive and impulsive, are better able to focus, and are less disruptive at home and school. However, there is no good evidence showing these benefits last for longer than two years.

Because diagnosis of the condition can be difficult, and a variety of medical and psychiatric disorders can cause symptoms that mimic ADHD, many children and teenagers taking these medicines may either not have ADHD or have only mild symptoms that do not require medication. Be sure to get a careful diagnosis from a physician or mental health professional with expertise in ADHD and a second opinion if you have doubts.

Adults with ADHD also appear to benefit from taking medication. But far fewer studies have examined the effectiveness of the medicines in this population.

Our analysis found no evidence that any ADHD drug is more effective than another.
Each raises different safety issues, however, and you should discuss them with your doctor. Dosing convenience (taking one pill a day instead of two or more; oral solutions for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets; or the use of a patch) and the period of time that a medicine is active in your body are critical elements of ADHD treatment.

• Dextroamphetamine tablets
• Dextroamphetamine sustained-release or long-acting tablets
• Methylphenidate tablets (Methylin or generic)
• Methylphenidate sustained-release tablets or capsules (10 mg—Methylin only [no generic available]; and 20 mg—generic or Methylin.) Note: If you need 30 mg or more, your options are limited to three significantly more expensive drugs—Metadate CD, Ritalin LA, or Concerta.

These four medicines are part of a class known as stimulants and have a long track record that shows they’re safe and effective. All four are also available in low- or moderate-cost generic or “branded” generic forms. Their monthly costs range from $11 to $60.