Non stimulant adhd meds for adults
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications for Adults
Introduction to Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that persists into adulthood in many cases. While stimulant medications are often the first line of treatment, non-stimulant medications are increasingly being explored due to their potential benefits, especially for individuals who do not respond well to stimulants or have comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders 123.
Common Non-Stimulant Medications
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that has shown promise in treating ADHD across the lifespan. It is particularly noted for its once-daily dosing and relatively few side effects, making it a convenient option for many adults 57. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing ADHD symptoms, although its effect size is generally smaller compared to stimulant medications 14.
Bupropion
Bupropion, an atypical antidepressant, has also been used to treat ADHD. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. While it is not as commonly prescribed as stimulants, it has shown effectiveness in some controlled trials, particularly for individuals with comorbid depressive symptoms 17.
Guanfacine and Clonidine
These alpha-2 adrenergic agonists are primarily used to treat hypertension but have been found to be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. Guanfacine, in particular, has been noted for its ability to improve executive functioning and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity 17. However, the number of studies documenting their efficacy is still limited .
Modafinil
Modafinil, a wakefulness-promoting agent, has been explored as a treatment for ADHD. It has shown some promise in improving attention and reducing impulsivity, although its use is less common compared to other non-stimulant options 17.
Viloxazine
Viloxazine is a newer non-stimulant option that has recently been approved for the treatment of ADHD in adults. It acts as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and may also modulate the serotonergic system. It is particularly noted for its safety profile and effectiveness in individuals with comorbid conditions such as depression and anxiety .
Efficacy and Limitations
While non-stimulant medications are effective for treating ADHD, their efficacy is generally lower compared to stimulant medications. Meta-analyses have shown that the effect sizes for non-stimulants are smaller, and there is often a delay in the onset of their clinical effects 24. Additionally, many studies on non-stimulants have small sample sizes and often exclude patients with comorbid disorders, which limits the generalizability of the findings to real-world clinical practice 13.
Conclusion
Non-stimulant medications offer valuable alternatives for adults with ADHD, particularly for those who do not respond well to stimulants or have comorbid conditions. Atomoxetine, bupropion, guanfacine, clonidine, modafinil, and viloxazine are among the non-stimulant options that have shown efficacy in treating ADHD symptoms. However, their effect sizes are generally smaller compared to stimulants, and more research is needed to fully understand their long-term efficacy and safety profiles.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic