Top 10 ADHD Stimulant Medications Ranked (By PMHNP-BC)

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner who prescribes ADHD medication every day, I'm ranking the top 10 extended release stimulant medications using my D.O.S.E.S. framework:

Dosing flexibility,
Outcomes (efficacy),
Side effects (tolerability),
Ease of access (insurance/pharmacy),
and Science (absorption technology).

Full transparency: I am not paid by or affiliated with any pharmaceutical company.

This ranking is based purely on my clinical experience treating ADHD patients.

This is video #29 in my 30 videos in 30 days challenge - and I wanted to make sure I covered the most comprehensive medication breakdown possible before the challenge ends.

In this video, I break down:

Methylphenidate-based medications: Concerta, Ritalin LA, Aptensio XR, Metadate CD, Focalin XR, and Jornay PM

Amphetamine-based medications: Dexedrine Spansules, Adderall XR, Vyvanse (Elvanse), and Mydayis

Why some medications work better than others for specific patients

Insurance coverage and pharmacy access issues

Titration strategies and clinical pearls from treating hundreds of ADHD patients

The science behind delayed-release, micro-bead, and OROS technology

For viewers outside the US: Many of these medications have different availability in Europe and other countries. Vyvanse is sold as Elvanse in the UK/EU. Concerta and Ritalin LA are available in most EU countries. Adderall XR has limited availability in Europe - check with your local prescriber about methylphenidate alternatives like Medikinet XL or Equasym XL. Mydayis and Jornay PM are primarily US-only medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider about what's available in your country.

Whether you're newly diagnosed with ADHD, struggling with your current medication, or trying to understand the differences between extended release stimulants, this ranking will help you have better conversations with your prescriber.

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DISCLAIMER: Content is educational and not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. I provide general information, not individual clinical advice.

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - intro
00:49 #10 concerta
01:25 #9 dex span
02:00 #8 aptensio
02:25 #7 ritalin la
03:07 #6 metadate CD
03:40 #5 mydayis
04:54 #4 vyvanse
05:40 #3 focalin
06:20 #2 adderall xr
07:00 #1 jornay pm
07:39 final rankings