How Do I Choose the Best ADHD Medication?

A Parent’s Guide to ADHD Medications

This parent’s guide to ADHD medications explains everything you need to know about the medication options available for your child, plus how to achieve optimal benefits and fix common side effects.

By ADDitude Editors Verified Updated on January 12, 2024
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The numbers tell the story: According to the Centers for Disease Control, 6.4 million children ages 4-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD. And according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the most effective treatments are parental behavior therapy and/or ADHD stimulants for children over age six.

Experts know, from years of research and many studies, that stimulant medications are effective. They improve the core symptoms of ADHD — impulsivity, hyperarousal, and distractibility — in some 70-80 percent of the people who take them.

But as parents, we know the decision to medicate (or not) is an anguishing one made easier only with thorough research and evaluation. That is where this free download comes in.

Here, find expert explanations regarding how to:

  • Know if it’s ADHD or a related condition
  • Determine the right medication and dosage
  • Monitor a medication’s effectiveness
  • Solve common medication problems — like side effects
  • Understand the differences between stimulants and non-stimulants
  • Work with your doctor to adjust medication or dosage

BONUS: Medication Chart

A breakdown of the most popular prescription medications used to treat ADHD — including formulation, compound, duration, and dosing considerations for each.

BONUS: Medications Savings Programs

Many parents worry about how they will afford their child’s treatment. This chart has links to available discount offers.

BONUS: Printable Observation Logs

Tracking forms, created by Laurie Dupar, PMHNP, RN, PCC, to help monitor your child’s response to treatment at school and at home.

How to Treat ADHD in Children: Next Questions

    1. What ADHD medications are used to treat children?
    2. Are ADHD meds safe for my child?
    3. What are common side effects associated with ADHD medication?
    4. What natural treatments help kids with ADHD?
    5. How can I find an ADHD specialist near me?

NOTE: This resource is for personal use only.