List of ADHD Medication Names: Do You Know What You’re Taking?

Whether prescribed to children, teens, or adults, ADHD medications play a critical role in managing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Knowing the ADHD medication names of these prescriptions helps prevent mistakes, avoid accidental misuse, and ensures you understand exactly what you or your loved one is taking.

List of Stimulant ADHD Medication Names

Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications, known for increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They often work quickly and are available in immediate and extended release forms.

Brand Name	Generic Name	Medication Type	Common Dosage Forms	Appearance/Identifiers
Adderall®	Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine	Stimulant	Tablets, XR capsules	Tablets often orange/peach, XR capsules orange & clear
Vyvanse®	Lisdexamfetamine	Stimulant	Capsules, chewable tablets	Capsules typically white or blue
Ritalin®	Methylphenidate	Stimulant	Tablets, LA & SR capsules	Tablets white or yellow, capsules two-toned
Concerta®	Methylphenidate ER	Stimulant	Extended-release tablets	OROS system capsule-like shape, color-coded by dosage
Focalin®	Dexmethylphenidate	Stimulant	Tablets, XR capsules	Tablets round, XR capsules multi-colored
Evekeo®	Amphetamine sulfate	Stimulant	Tablets, ODT	White or blue tablets depending on strength

List of Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication Names

Brand Name	Generic Name	Medication Type	Common Dosage Forms	Appearance/Identifiers
Strattera®	Atomoxetine	Non-stimulant	Capsules	Typically yellow, brown, or blue
Qelbree®	Viloxazine	Non-stimulant	Capsules	White or two-tone capsules
Kapvay®	Clonidine ER	Non-stimulant	Extended-release tablets	White to off-white tablets
Intuniv®	Guanfacine ER	Non-stimulant	Extended-release tablets	Green, white, or yellow tablets

Non-stimulants may be prescribed when stimulants cause unwanted side effects, have misuse potential, or when a patient also has anxiety or tics.

Identifying ADHD Pills Safely

Accurate identification is key to preventing misuse. Use a pill identifier from a trusted pharmacy or the FDA’s online database. Never take a pill unless it was prescribed directly to you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist.

ADHD Medications Risk & Misuse Potential

Some stimulant ADHD medications are Schedule II controlled substances, meaning they have a higher risk for misuse and dependence. Store all ADHD medications securely and avoid sharing prescriptions.

How Portland Treatment Can Help with ADHD Stimulant Medication Addiction & Other Drug Dependencies.

At Portland Treatment, we know that recovery is a journey, and the best outcomes happen when care is coordinated from the very first step through long-term aftercare. That’s why we connect clients to a complete continuum of care, ensuring no one falls through the cracks at any point in their recovery. Whether you’re taking your first step toward sobriety or transitioning back to everyday life, we have the resources and partnerships to support you.

A Full Continuum of Care for ADHD Prescription Drug Addiction in Maine Includes:

• Medical Detox – Partnered facilities for safe, supervised withdrawal management.
• Inpatient/Residential Treatment – Intensive, structured care in a supportive environment.
• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Full-day therapy and psychiatric support while living off-site or in recovery housing.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – Flexible scheduling for continued therapy and support.
• Outpatient Services – Ongoing clinical care tailored to your schedule.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – FDA-approved medications for substance use and mental health support when clinically appropriate.
• Recovery Housing & Sober Living – Structured, substance-free housing to reinforce healthy habits.
• Aftercare & Alumni Support – Continued connection, accountability, and community resources for lasting recovery.

At Portland Treatment, you’re never navigating recovery alone. Our team coordinates each stage of care so you can focus fully on healing, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your next step is already in place. Reach out today and our admissions team can verify your insurance, complete an assessment and help you determine the best level of care to suit your needs. 

FAQs

What is the generic name for Adderall?
The generic name is amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. It comes in immediate and extended release forms (XR).

Is Vyvanse the same as Adderall?
No. While both are amphetamine-based stimulants, Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a prodrug that must be metabolized before becoming active, which may reduce misuse potential.

What ADHD meds are non-stimulant?
Examples include atomoxetine (Strattera®), guanfacine ER (Intuniv®), clonidine ER (Kapvay®), and viloxazine (Qelbree®).

Can ADHD medication be addictive?
Some stimulant ADHD medications have misuse potential if taken in ways other than prescribed. Non-stimulants do not carry the same risk for physical dependence.

How do I identify an ADHD pill?
Use a pharmacy-provided pill identifier, inputting the pill’s shape, color, and imprint code.

Sources

1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). FDA-approved ADHD medications list. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs
3. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 144(4), e20192528.
4. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022). Prescription stimulants drug facts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-stimulants
5. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. (2023). Controlled Substances Schedules. Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling