ADHD Medications: Stimulants vs. Non-Stimulants — What You Need to Know
By Tannia Salazar, APRN | Rooted in Serenity Behavioral Health LLC 🌿
Rooted in Care. Grounded in Calm. Focused on Your Healing.
Finding Clarity in ADHD Treatment
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with ADHD—or you’re wondering if medication could help—you might feel overwhelmed by all the options. You may have heard about stimulants, non-stimulants, or even newer approaches, and wondered: Which one is right for me?
The truth is, ADHD medication is not one-size-fits-all. Each option works differently, has unique benefits, and comes with its own set of considerations. In this post, we’ll break down the differences between stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications, so you can feel more informed when talking with your provider.
What Are Stimulants?
Stimulants are the most common and effective first-line treatment for ADHD. They include:
Methylphenidate-based medications (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin)
Amphetamine-based medications (Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine)
They work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain—chemicals that help with attention, focus, and self-control. Most stimulants start working within 30–60 minutes, which makes their effects easy to notice.
Pros: Quick onset, strong effectiveness, available in short-acting or long-acting versions.
Cons: Possible side effects like decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, or mild jitteriness.
What Are Non-Stimulants?
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are another option, especially for people who:
Don’t tolerate stimulant side effects
Have co-existing conditions like anxiety, sleep difficulties, or tics
Don’t respond well to stimulants
Examples include:
Atomoxetine (Strattera)
Guanfacine (Intuniv)
Clonidine (Kapvay)
Non-stimulants usually take longer to show benefits—sometimes several weeks—but often provide steadier, all-day coverage without the peaks and valleys some stimulants cause.
Pros: Less risk of insomnia or appetite loss, no controlled substance status.
Cons: Slower onset, may cause fatigue, nausea, or lower blood pressure.
| Feature | Stimulants | Non-Stimulants |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Within 30–60 minutes | Several weeks |
| Duration | Short-acting (3–4 hrs) or extended (8–12 hrs) | Steadier, all-day coverage |
| Common Side Effects | Appetite suppression, insomnia, jitteriness, ↑ heart rate or BP | Fatigue, nausea, dizziness, ↓ blood pressure |
| Best Fit | Most adolescents & adults with ADHD | Those with anxiety, sleep issues, tics, or stimulant intolerance |
Side Effects: What to Expect
All ADHD medications can cause side effects, but many are temporary or improve with adjustments. For stimulants, the most common issues are appetite suppression, insomnia, or feeling jittery. Non-stimulants may cause fatigue, nausea, or dizziness, especially in the beginning.
Your provider will help monitor and adjust dosing to find the right balance for you.
How Do Providers Decide?
The choice between stimulant and non-stimulant medication depends on:
Your medical and family history
Response to past treatments
Co-existing conditions (like anxiety, trauma, or sleep problems)
Personal preferences (e.g., avoiding controlled substances)
Insurance coverage
Sometimes, providers may even combine both approaches—for example, a stimulant during the day and a non-stimulant at night for additional support.
🪴 Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Medications
Are stimulants addictive?
When prescribed and monitored, stimulants are not addictive. Misuse is possible, but careful follow-up and safe prescribing make them a safe and effective option for ADHD. This is also why I require patients on stimulant medications to follow up monthly—both for safety and to ensure the medication is working as intended.
What if I can’t tolerate stimulants?
Non-stimulants can be a better fit. Some patients also use therapy, coaching, and lifestyle changes as primary supports.
Can ADHD meds be combined?
Yes, in some cases, a stimulant may be combined with a non-stimulant for better symptom control.
Do ADHD medications change your personality?
No—the goal is to help you feel more focused and calm, not to take away your personality. Many people describe feeling “more like themselves” once their symptoms are better managed.
How do I get ADHD medication in Connecticut?
ADHD medications require a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. At Rooted in Serenity Behavioral Health LLC, Tannia Salazar, APRN provides telehealth-based evaluations and personalized treatment planning across Connecticut.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Medication isn’t the right answer for everyone, but it can be life-changing when it is. If you’re wondering whether stimulants, non-stimulants, or another approach might help, you don’t need to navigate this alone.
At Rooted in Serenity Behavioral Health LLC, I provide thoughtful, trauma-informed psychiatric care for adults across Connecticut—helping you find the treatment plan that fits your life.
🌱 Now Accepting New Patients in Connecticut for ADHD & Psychiatric Care
👉 Get Started Here 💫
📗 Read about overlapping symptoms of ADHD and anxiety
📘 7 Signs You Might Benefit from Medication
📙 Understanding Medication Management
📖 Learn more about Tannia Salazar, APRN
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🌿 Tannia Salazar, APRN, Founder of Rooted in Serenity Behavioral Health LLC, offering telepsychiatry services across Connecticut for adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and more.
