Pharmacology · Class
ADHD medicines !
Stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamines) and non-stimulants (atomoxetine) that raise dopamine and noradrenaline to improve attention.
Updated 2026-11-01
What they are
Medicines for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stimulants work quickly and are controlled substances because of abuse risk; atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that is not a controlled substance.
Mechanism of action
Methylphenidate blocks the dopamine and noradrenaline transporters (DAT, NET). Amphetamines also enter the neuron and release dopamine and noradrenaline from vesicles (VMAT2) and through reverse transport. Atomoxetine selectively blocks NET. More catecholamine in the prefrontal cortex improves attention and impulse control.
Target: Dopamine (DAT) and noradrenaline (NET) transporters
Drugs in this class
- MethylphenidateA stimulant for ADHD and narcolepsy that blocks dopamine and noradrenaline reuptake. It is a controlled substance…Dopamine transporter (DAT)
- AmfetamineA stimulant that releases dopamine and noradrenaline from nerve endings. Used for ADHD and narcolepsy; high abuse…Vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) and the dopamine and noradrenaline transporters
- AtomoxetineA non-stimulant for ADHD that selectively blocks noradrenaline reuptake. Not a controlled substance, so its abuse risk…Noradrenaline transporter (NET)
Others in the class
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Dexamfetamine
- Guanfacine
- Clonidine
Test yourself
Think of the answer, then tap the question to see it.
How does amphetamine differ from methylphenidate in its mechanism?
Methylphenidate only blocks reuptake; amphetamine also releases dopamine and noradrenaline from vesicles and reverses the transporters.
Which ADHD medicine is not a controlled substance, and which transporter does it block?
Atomoxetine; it selectively blocks the noradrenaline transporter (NET).
Why is a stimulant contraindicated with an MAO inhibitor?
Both raise synaptic catecholamines; together they can cause a hypertensive crisis.
Educational content on how drugs work; not a prescribing guide and no substitute for a health professional's advice. No doses are given.
Sources: DailyMed - METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE tablet (DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2026); DailyMed - ATOMOXETINE capsule (DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2026); DailyMed - AMPHETAMINE SULFATE tablet (DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2026).
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Representative model, for educational purposes only.