An important part of managing Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the use of medication. The medications currently in use do not cure ADHD. The ultimate goal with medication is to improve functioning by reducing the core symptoms of ADHD (inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity). Stimulant medications for ADHD work relatively quickly but have several possible side effects and risks to consider.

Video

ADHD Treatment in Children & Youth: Webinar Recording

BC Children's Hospital

Webinar recording for parents & caregivers from the ADHD Treatment in Children and Youth webinar. To see the accompanying presentation slides, click here (Feb. 10, 2021).

Medication Sheet

atomoxetine (Strattera®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

English
Medication Sheet

clonidine (Catapres®, Dixarit®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD, tic disorders, irritability of autism and disruptive behaviour disorders.

English
Medication Sheet

dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine®, Dexedrine® Spansule)

BC Children's Hospital

is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

English
Medication Sheet

Guanfacine XR (Intuniv XR®)

BC Children's Hospital

Guanfacine XR ia a long-acting non-stimulant medication used in the treatment of ADHD, disruptive behaviour disorders and tic disorders.

English
Medication Sheet

lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a long-acting stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

Medication Sheet

methylphenidate (Biphentin®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a long-acting stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

English
Medication Sheet

methylphenidate (Concerta®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a long-acting stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

English
Medication Sheet

methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Ritalin SR®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

English
Medication Sheet

mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall XR®)

BC Children's Hospital

is a long-acting stimulant medication used to treat ADHD.

English
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Need urgent help?

If you, your child, or someone you care about is having a mental health or substance use crisis:

  • Call 911 or go to your local hospital’s emergency room if you are in need of immediate help
  • Call 1-800- SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) anytime if you are concerned about someone who may be considering suicide

These are a few examples of situations when you should seek immediate help:

  • The child or youth is thinking about or trying to end their life
  • The child or youth is experiencing sensations that aren’t real and/or beliefs that can’t possibly be true
  • The child or youth is unable to care for themselves, and it’s putting them at risk of serious harm
  • The child or youth is experiencing an alcohol or drug overdose
  • The child or youth is taking a dangerous combination of substances (like medications and alcohol)

For non-urgent support options, explore our Ask Kelty Mental Health tool. You’ll find answers to common questions families have about accessing mental health supports and services in BC for their child or youth.