Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications for Adults: Options, Benefits, and Side Effects

Medically Reviewed by Rebecca Sommer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C Last Medically Reviewed: October 11, 2026

Non-stimulant medications can be an important treatment option for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

While stimulant medications are commonly used for ADHD, they are not the only option. Some adults may benefit from a non-stimulant because of side effects, medical history, personal preference, co-occurring conditions, concerns about stimulant misuse, or an inadequate response to previous treatment.

At Live Now Psychiatry, Florida adults can receive online ADHD evaluations and treatment through secure telehealth appointments.

This guide explains the main non-stimulant ADHD medications used in adults, how they work, potential benefits, common side effects, and what patients should discuss with their healthcare provider when considering treatment.

Adults 18+ • Florida only • Secure telehealth • Self-pay psychiatric care

Non-stimulant ADHD medications for adults, including Strattera, Qelbree, Intuniv, and Kapvay



What Are Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications?

Non-stimulant ADHD medications are prescription medications that may help reduce ADHD symptoms without belonging to the traditional stimulant medication class.

They may be considered when:

  • Stimulants cause problematic side effects

  • Stimulants are not sufficiently effective

  • A patient prefers a non-stimulant treatment approach

  • Medical or psychiatric history affects stimulant suitability

  • Substance-use concerns are relevant

  • A clinician believes a non-stimulant may better fit the patient's treatment needs

Non-stimulants generally work differently from amphetamine- or methylphenidate-based medications and often take longer to produce their full therapeutic effect.

They should still be prescribed and monitored carefully.

If you are comparing the full range of treatment choices, read Adult ADHD Treatment in Florida: Online Evaluation & Medication Management.

What Non-Stimulant Medications Are Used for Adult ADHD?

The main medications adults may hear about include:

  • Atomoxetine

  • Viloxazine extended-release

  • Guanfacine extended-release

  • Clonidine extended-release

  • Certain medications used off-label in selected patients

Not every medication listed here is FDA-approved for adult ADHD specifically.

That distinction matters.

For example, atomoxetine is approved for ADHD in adults, while some alpha-2 adrenergic agonists have FDA approval primarily in pediatric populations and may be considered off-label in adults in certain clinical situations.

Medication choice should be individualized.

Atomoxetine (Strattera)

Atomoxetine is one of the best-known non-stimulant medications for ADHD.

Strattera is the former brand name, while atomoxetine is the generic medication.

It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and is FDA-approved for ADHD in adults and children.

How Atomoxetine Works

Atomoxetine primarily increases the availability of norepinephrine in the brain.

Norepinephrine is involved in:

  • Attention

  • Alertness

  • Impulse control

  • Behavioral regulation

  • Executive functioning

Unlike stimulant medications, atomoxetine does not typically produce an immediate noticeable effect after each dose.

Its benefit may develop gradually over time.

Potential Benefits of Atomoxetine

Potential advantages may include:

  • Non-stimulant treatment

  • Not a Schedule II controlled substance

  • No stimulant-type misuse potential

  • May provide all-day symptom coverage when effective

  • Can be useful for adults who do not tolerate stimulants

  • May be considered when stimulant treatment is not preferred or appropriate

Common Side Effects of Atomoxetine

Potential side effects may include:

  • Nausea

  • Decreased appetite

  • Dry mouth

  • Constipation

  • Fatigue

  • Dizziness

  • Sleep changes

  • Increased sweating

  • Sexual side effects

  • Urinary symptoms

  • Increased blood pressure or heart rate

For a deeper explanation, read Strattera for Adult ADHD: How It Works, Side Effects, and What to Expect.

Viloxazine Extended-Release

Viloxazine extended-release is another non-stimulant medication used for ADHD.

It is marketed under the brand name Qelbree.

Viloxazine affects norepinephrine-related signaling and has additional effects on certain serotonin receptors.

It was first approved for pediatric ADHD and later received FDA approval for use in adults with ADHD.

Potential Benefits of Viloxazine

Potential advantages may include:

  • Non-stimulant treatment

  • Not classified as a Schedule II controlled substance

  • Once-daily dosing

  • Option for patients who cannot tolerate or do not want stimulant medication

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects may include:

  • Sleepiness

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea

  • Decreased appetite

  • Insomnia

  • Headache

  • Irritability

  • Increased heart rate

  • Increased blood pressure

Viloxazine also has important warnings and interaction considerations, including effects involving certain liver enzymes that can change levels of other medications.

Patients should provide their clinician with a complete medication list before starting treatment.

Guanfacine Extended-Release

Guanfacine extended-release is another non-stimulant medication associated with ADHD treatment.

It is an alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist.

Guanfacine extended-release is FDA-approved for ADHD in children and adolescents, but clinicians may sometimes consider it off-label for adults.

How Guanfacine Works

Guanfacine affects alpha-2A adrenergic receptors in areas of the brain involved in:

  • Attention

  • Working memory

  • Behavioral regulation

  • Impulse control

Potential Benefits

Depending on the patient, potential advantages may include:

  • Non-stimulant treatment

  • No Schedule II controlled-substance status

  • May be considered when hyperactivity, impulsivity, or sleep-related concerns are relevant

  • May be considered when stimulant treatment is not tolerated

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects include:

  • Sleepiness

  • Fatigue

  • Dizziness

  • Low blood pressure

  • Slower heart rate

  • Dry mouth

  • Constipation

Because guanfacine can lower blood pressure and heart rate, patients should not stop it abruptly without guidance from a clinician.

Sudden discontinuation may cause rebound increases in blood pressure.

Clonidine Extended-Release

Clonidine extended-release is another alpha-2 adrenergic agonist used in ADHD treatment.

Like guanfacine, its FDA approval for ADHD is primarily in pediatric patients, though it may sometimes be considered off-label in adults.

Potential Benefits

Potential reasons a clinician may consider clonidine include:

  • Non-stimulant approach

  • Hyperactivity or impulsivity concerns

  • Difficulty tolerating stimulant medication

  • Sleep-related symptoms in selected patients

  • Need for an alternative treatment strategy

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects may include:

  • Drowsiness

  • Fatigue

  • Dizziness

  • Low blood pressure

  • Slow heart rate

  • Dry mouth

  • Constipation

Clonidine also should not be stopped abruptly without medical supervision because of the risk of rebound hypertension.

Are Antidepressants Used for ADHD?

Certain antidepressants may sometimes be prescribed off-label for ADHD.

One example is bupropion.

Bupropion is not FDA-approved specifically for ADHD, but some clinicians may consider it in selected adults, particularly when ADHD occurs with depression or when other medication options are not appropriate.

Potential Benefits of Bupropion

Possible reasons it may be discussed include:

  • ADHD symptoms plus depression

  • Desire to avoid stimulant treatment

  • Previous intolerance to another medication

  • Need for an alternative off-label option

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects may include:

  • Insomnia

  • Dry mouth

  • Headache

  • Nausea

  • Anxiety

  • Reduced appetite

  • Increased blood pressure

Bupropion also lowers seizure threshold and may not be appropriate for people with certain seizure disorders or eating-disorder histories.

Off-label medication use should always be discussed clearly with the patient.

Comparing Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications for Adults

Non-stimulant ADHD medications differ in their FDA-approved uses, potential side effects, and effects on blood pressure and heart rate. Understanding these differences can help adults make informed treatment decisions with their healthcare provider.

Atomoxetine (Strattera)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: Yes.

Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor approved for ADHD treatment in children, adolescents, and adults.

Common side effects may include nausea, decreased appetite, dry mouth, constipation, and insomnia. Atomoxetine may increase blood pressure and heart rate and requires appropriate cardiovascular monitoring.

Viloxazine Extended-Release (Qelbree)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: Yes.

Viloxazine ER is a non-stimulant medication approved for ADHD treatment in adults and pediatric patients ages 6 years and older.

Potential side effects include insomnia, fatigue, nausea, headache, and decreased appetite. Qelbree carries an FDA boxed warning regarding suicidal thoughts and behaviors and has important drug interaction considerations.

Guanfacine Extended-Release (Intuniv)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: No. Off-label use in adults.

Guanfacine ER is an alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist FDA-approved for ADHD treatment in children and adolescents ages 6–17. It may sometimes be prescribed off-label for adults based on individual clinical circumstances.

Common side effects include sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, and decreased blood pressure or heart rate. Abrupt discontinuation may cause rebound hypertension.

Clonidine Extended-Release (Kapvay)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: No. Off-label use in adults.

Clonidine ER is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist FDA-approved for ADHD treatment in pediatric patients ages 6–17. Its use for adult ADHD is considered off-label.

Potential side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, low blood pressure, and a slower heart rate. Abrupt discontinuation may result in rebound hypertension.

Important: FDA-approved medications are not necessarily approved for ADHD treatment in every age group. Off-label prescribing may be considered when clinically appropriate, but treatment decisions should always account for individual medical history, potential medication interactions, and safety considerations.

Non-Stimulant vs. Stimulant ADHD Medication

Non-stimulants and stimulants can both be used to treat ADHD, but they differ in important ways.

Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications

  • Usually do not produce immediate effects

  • May take days or weeks to reach full benefit

  • Are generally not Schedule II controlled substances

  • May have less misuse potential

  • Can be useful when stimulants cause side effects

  • May be considered when substance-use concerns are present

  • Still require monitoring for side effects and effectiveness

Stimulant ADHD Medications

  • Often work more quickly

  • Include amphetamine and methylphenidate medications

  • Are Schedule II controlled substances

  • Carry risks of misuse, abuse, addiction, and diversion

  • Can cause appetite suppression, insomnia, and cardiovascular effects

  • Often require regular monitoring

Neither category is automatically better.

The most appropriate treatment depends on the individual.

Comparing Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications for Adults

Non-stimulant ADHD medications differ in their FDA-approved uses, potential side effects, and effects on blood pressure and heart rate. Understanding these differences can help adults make informed treatment decisions with their healthcare provider.

Atomoxetine (Strattera)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: Yes.

Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor approved for ADHD treatment in children, adolescents, and adults.

Common side effects may include nausea, decreased appetite, dry mouth, constipation, and insomnia. Atomoxetine may increase blood pressure and heart rate and requires appropriate cardiovascular monitoring.

Viloxazine Extended-Release (Qelbree)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: Yes.

Viloxazine ER is a non-stimulant medication approved for ADHD treatment in adults and pediatric patients ages 6 years and older.

Potential side effects include insomnia, fatigue, nausea, headache, and decreased appetite. Qelbree carries an FDA boxed warning regarding suicidal thoughts and behaviors and has important drug interaction considerations.

Guanfacine Extended-Release (Intuniv)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: No. Off-label use in adults.

Guanfacine ER is an alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist FDA-approved for ADHD treatment in children and adolescents ages 6–17. It may sometimes be prescribed off-label for adults based on individual clinical circumstances.

Common side effects include sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, and decreased blood pressure or heart rate. Abrupt discontinuation may cause rebound hypertension.

Clonidine Extended-Release (Kapvay)

FDA-approved for adult ADHD: No. Off-label use in adults.

Clonidine ER is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist FDA-approved for ADHD treatment in pediatric patients ages 6–17. Its use for adult ADHD is considered off-label.

Potential side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, low blood pressure, and a slower heart rate. Abrupt discontinuation may result in rebound hypertension.

Important: FDA-approved medications are not necessarily approved for ADHD treatment in every age group. Off-label prescribing may be considered when clinically appropriate, but treatment decisions should always account for individual medical history, potential medication interactions, and safety considerations.

When Might a Non-Stimulant Be Considered Instead of a Stimulant?

Non-stimulant ADHD medications may be considered for adults who experience intolerable stimulant side effects, have certain contraindications, prefer an alternative to controlled-substance medications, or have other clinical circumstances that make non-stimulant treatment appropriate.

Stimulant medications such as Adderall and Vyvanse can be effective for many adults with ADHD. However, some individuals experience increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, appetite suppression, insomnia, or other adverse effects.

Non-stimulant medications offer additional treatment options, although they are not free of risks or side effects. Atomoxetine and viloxazine ER may increase blood pressure or heart rate, while guanfacine ER and clonidine ER may lower them.

Non-stimulant medications also differ in how quickly their benefits become apparent. Some may require several weeks to evaluate their effectiveness.

The decision to prescribe a stimulant or non-stimulant should be individualized following a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, review of medical history, and discussion of potential benefits, risks, and alternatives.

Explore Online ADHD Treatment in Florida

Choosing an ADHD medication involves more than comparing potential benefits and side effects. A comprehensive evaluation can help determine which treatment options may be appropriate based on symptoms, medical history, and individual needs.

At Live Now Psychiatry, Rebecca Sommer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, provides individualized online ADHD evaluations and medication management for adults throughout Florida.

Learn more about our Adult ADHD Treatment in Florida services.

How Long Do Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Take to Work?

This varies by medication.

In general, non-stimulants usually do not work as quickly as stimulant ADHD medications.

Some patients may notice early improvement within days, but full therapeutic benefit may take several weeks depending on the medication and the individual.

Because of this slower onset, it is important to evaluate treatment over an appropriate period unless side effects or safety concerns require earlier changes.

Patients should not assume a medication has failed after only a few doses.

Follow-up with the prescribing clinician is important.

What Do Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Feel Like?

There is no single feeling that proves a non-stimulant medication is working.

For many adults, improvement may be noticed through better functioning rather than a sudden subjective effect.

For example:

  • Tasks are easier to start

  • Fewer responsibilities are forgotten

  • Distractibility decreases

  • Work feels more manageable

  • Organization improves

  • Impulsivity decreases

  • Conversations are easier to follow

  • Projects are completed more consistently

A useful question is:

Am I functioning better in the areas where ADHD was interfering with my life?

That is often more meaningful than asking whether the medication feels noticeable.

What Are the Benefits of Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications?

Potential benefits may include:

  • Alternative for patients who cannot tolerate stimulants

  • Lower misuse potential

  • No Schedule II classification for most non-stimulant options

  • Potentially more consistent symptom coverage in some patients

  • Option for people with certain medical or psychiatric considerations

  • Useful when stimulant side effects outweigh benefits

  • May fit patient preference better

However, non-stimulants also have limitations.

They may:

  • Take longer to work

  • Be less effective for some patients

  • Cause sedation or fatigue

  • Affect blood pressure or heart rate

  • Have medication interaction concerns

  • Produce gastrointestinal or sexual side effects depending on the drug

The benefits and risks should be reviewed individually.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications?

Side effects vary by medication, but may include:

  • Fatigue

  • Drowsiness

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea

  • Decreased appetite

  • Dry mouth

  • Constipation

  • Sleep changes

  • Headache

  • Blood pressure changes

  • Heart rate changes

  • Sexual side effects

  • Irritability

Some non-stimulants may raise blood pressure.

Others may lower it.

This is one reason medication choice and monitoring should be individualized.

Can Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication Cause Fatigue?

Yes.

Fatigue and drowsiness can occur with several non-stimulant medications.

For example:

  • Atomoxetine can cause tiredness in some patients

  • Viloxazine can cause sleepiness or fatigue

  • Guanfacine can be sedating

  • Clonidine can be sedating

Patients should use caution with driving or operating machinery until they know how a medication affects them.

If fatigue becomes severe or interferes with functioning, discuss it with the prescribing clinician.

Can Non-Stimulants Affect Blood Pressure or Heart Rate?

Yes.

Different medications can have different cardiovascular effects.

Atomoxetine

May increase:

  • Blood pressure

  • Heart rate

Viloxazine

May increase:

  • Heart rate

  • Blood pressure

Guanfacine

May decrease:

  • Blood pressure

  • Heart rate

Clonidine

May decrease:

  • Blood pressure

  • Heart rate

This means cardiovascular history still matters even when a medication is not a stimulant.

A clinician may review:

  • Blood pressure

  • Heart rate

  • Personal heart history

  • Fainting history

  • Current medications

  • Other medical conditions

Are Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Safer Than Stimulants?

Not automatically.

Non-stimulant does not mean risk-free.

Every medication has:

  • Potential side effects

  • Contraindications

  • Drug interactions

  • Monitoring requirements

  • Individual risks

A non-stimulant may be safer or more appropriate for a particular patient, while a stimulant may be safe and effective for someone else.

The decision depends on the entire clinical picture.

Who Might Consider a Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication?

A clinician and patient may discuss non-stimulant treatment when:

  • Stimulants caused significant side effects

  • Stimulants worsened sleep

  • Stimulants worsened anxiety

  • Stimulants caused unacceptable appetite suppression

  • A stimulant did not provide adequate symptom control

  • Substance-use history is relevant

  • Medical history affects stimulant use

  • The patient prefers a non-stimulant

  • The clinician believes another approach is more appropriate

There is no universal checklist that determines who should receive one.

Can Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Help Anxiety?

Possibly, but this depends on the individual medication and the reason for the anxiety.

ADHD and anxiety often overlap.

Symptoms such as:

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Restlessness

  • Overthinking

  • Sleep problems

  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • Trouble completing tasks

may occur in either condition.

Some adults experience anxiety because untreated ADHD creates repeated problems with deadlines, disorganization, or responsibilities.

Others have a primary anxiety disorder that independently affects concentration.

If you are unsure which condition may be contributing to your symptoms, read ADHD vs. Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference.

Can Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Help With Sleep?

Some may be more sedating than stimulants, but they should not be considered sleep medications automatically.

Guanfacine and clonidine can cause drowsiness.

Atomoxetine and viloxazine can also affect sleep, but some patients may experience insomnia instead.

Sleep effects vary considerably.

If chronic insomnia is present, it should be evaluated separately.

Learn more about insomnia treatment in Florida (link to your Insomnia Treatment page).

Are Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Addictive?

Most non-stimulant ADHD medications are not classified as Schedule II controlled substances and do not carry the same misuse and addiction risks as prescription stimulants.

That is one reason some patients and clinicians may prefer them.

However, medications should still:

  • Be taken only as prescribed

  • Never be shared

  • Be stored safely

  • Be monitored appropriately

No prescription medication should be treated casually simply because it is not controlled.

What Should You Tell Your Provider Before Starting a Non-Stimulant?

Before starting any ADHD medication, provide a complete medical and psychiatric history.

Tell your provider about:

  • Current prescription medications

  • Over-the-counter medications

  • Vitamins

  • Supplements

  • Allergies

  • Heart disease

  • Blood pressure problems

  • Abnormal heart rhythms

  • Fainting

  • Liver disease

  • Kidney disease

  • Seizure history

  • Glaucoma

  • Depression

  • Bipolar disorder

  • Suicidal thoughts or history

  • Substance-use history

  • Previous ADHD medications

  • Previous medication reactions

  • Pregnancy

  • Plans for pregnancy

  • Breastfeeding

Medication interactions are especially important.

For example, atomoxetine has clinically important interactions with MAO inhibitors.

Viloxazine can affect metabolism of other medications.

A complete medication list helps reduce avoidable risk.

Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications and Pregnancy

Patients who are pregnant, may be pregnant, are planning pregnancy, or are breastfeeding should discuss medication treatment with their healthcare provider.

Different non-stimulant medications have different pregnancy and lactation considerations.

The decision to continue, stop, or change medication should be individualized.

Do not make medication changes based solely on information found online.

Contact your prescriber if pregnancy occurs while taking psychiatric medication.

Are There Serious Side Effects?

Serious reactions depend on the specific medication.

Patients should seek prompt medical attention for symptoms such as:

  • Chest pain

  • Significant shortness of breath

  • Fainting

  • Severe allergic reaction

  • Seizure

  • Hallucinations

  • Severe mood or behavioral changes

  • Suicidal thoughts

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes

  • Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms

Some medications also carry specific warnings related to suicidal thoughts in younger populations.

Any suicidal thoughts or psychiatric emergency require prompt professional evaluation.

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for an immediate emergency.

How Do You Know If a Non-Stimulant Is Working?

Treatment should be evaluated based on function.

A provider may ask whether there has been improvement in:

  • Attention

  • Organization

  • Task initiation

  • Task completion

  • Distractibility

  • Impulse control

  • Work performance

  • School functioning

  • Household responsibilities

  • Relationships

Side effects should also be weighed against benefit.

A medication that improves concentration but causes severe fatigue, dizziness, or other significant problems may not be the right long-term option.

Why ADHD Medication Follow-Up Matters

Non-stimulants still require follow-up.

A clinician may monitor:

  • ADHD symptoms

  • Functioning

  • Sleep

  • Appetite

  • Weight

  • Blood pressure

  • Heart rate

  • Mood

  • Anxiety

  • Side effects

  • Medication adherence

  • Medication interactions

  • New medical conditions

Treatment should be adjusted based on the patient's response rather than simply continued indefinitely without reassessment.

Adult ADHD Treatment Is More Than Medication

Difficulty concentrating does not automatically mean ADHD.

Symptoms that look like ADHD may also occur with:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Insomnia

  • Trauma-related symptoms

  • Substance use

  • Thyroid or other medical conditions

  • Medication effects

A comprehensive evaluation may consider:

  • Childhood symptoms

  • Current symptoms

  • Functional impairment

  • Work or school history

  • Relationship functioning

  • Medical history

  • Psychiatric history

  • Sleep

  • Substance use

  • Other possible causes of attention problems

Learn more about Adult ADHD Evaluation Online in Florida.

You may also find How to Know If You Have ADHD as an Adult helpful.

Online ADHD Treatment for Adults in Florida

Live Now Psychiatry provides online psychiatric care for adults throughout Florida through secure telehealth.

Adults experiencing problems with focus, organization, distractibility, impulsivity, or completing responsibilities can receive an evaluation to determine whether ADHD or another condition may be contributing.

When clinically appropriate, treatment may include:

  • Psychiatric evaluation

  • Medication management

  • Non-stimulant ADHD medication when appropriate

  • Stimulant medication when appropriate

  • Ongoing follow-up

  • Supportive therapy

  • Education about treatment options

An ADHD evaluation does not guarantee an ADHD diagnosis or prescription for atomoxetine, Qelbree, guanfacine, clonidine, stimulant medication, or any other specific medication.

Treatment recommendations are based on each patient's individual clinical assessment.

Learn more about online ADHD treatment in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications

What Is the Most Common Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication for Adults?

Atomoxetine is one of the most established non-stimulant options and is FDA-approved for ADHD in adults.

Is Strattera a Non-Stimulant?

Yes.

Strattera is the former brand name for atomoxetine, a non-stimulant ADHD medication.

Is Qelbree a Non-Stimulant?

Yes.

Qelbree contains viloxazine extended-release and is a non-stimulant ADHD medication.

Is Guanfacine a Non-Stimulant?

Yes.

Guanfacine is not a stimulant. Extended-release guanfacine is FDA-approved for pediatric ADHD and may sometimes be considered off-label in adults.

Is Clonidine a Non-Stimulant?

Yes.

Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and may sometimes be used as part of ADHD treatment.

Do Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications Work as Well as Stimulants?

Response varies.

Stimulants are highly effective for many patients, but some adults respond well to non-stimulants.

The best medication depends on the individual.

How Long Do Non-Stimulants Take to Work?

Many non-stimulants take longer than stimulants to produce their full effect.

Depending on the medication, improvement may develop over several days or weeks.

Can Non-Stimulants Cause Weight Loss?

Some can.

Atomoxetine and viloxazine may decrease appetite in some patients.

Can Non-Stimulants Make You Tired?

Yes.

Fatigue or drowsiness can occur with atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine, and clonidine.

Are Non-Stimulants Controlled Substances?

Most commonly used non-stimulant ADHD medications are not Schedule II controlled substances.

Can Adults Get Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication Through Telepsychiatry in Florida?

A Florida-licensed healthcare professional may evaluate whether non-stimulant medication is appropriate through telehealth when clinically appropriate and permitted under applicable professional standards.

A telehealth appointment does not guarantee an ADHD diagnosis or prescription for a specific medication.

Resources

For additional evidence-based information:

Medical Disclaimer

The information in this article is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose ADHD, recommend a specific medication, establish an individualized treatment plan, or replace medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications have potential benefits, risks, contraindications, drug interactions, and monitoring requirements that vary by patient.

Some medications discussed in this article may be used off-label in adults. Off-label prescribing may be clinically appropriate in selected situations but should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

Do not start, stop, increase, decrease, combine, or switch prescription medication without discussing the change with your prescribing healthcare professional.

Reading this article or visiting this website does not establish a provider-patient relationship with Live Now Psychiatry, LLC.

If you are experiencing a psychiatric or medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

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About the Author

Rebecca Sommer, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a dual-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner and founder of Live Now Psychiatry. She provides online psychiatric evaluations, ADHD treatment, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults throughout Florida. Her clinical background includes oncology and patient-centered healthcare.

Learn more about Rebecca Sommer's professional background and credentials.

Ready to Learn More About Adult ADHD Treatment?

If attention problems, disorganization, distractibility, impulsivity, or difficulty completing responsibilities are interfering with everyday life, an evaluation can help clarify what may be contributing and which treatment options may be appropriate.

Live Now Psychiatry provides self-pay online psychiatric care for adults throughout Florida through secure telehealth.

A screening or psychiatric evaluation does not guarantee acceptance into the practice, an ADHD diagnosis, or prescription for a non-stimulant, stimulant, controlled substance, or any other specific medication.

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