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The Daily Insight

Are ADHD Medications controlled substances?

Author

William Smith

Updated on April 03, 2026

If you’re taking medicine for ADHD, what you’re taking likely is a controlled substance. That means that the federal government regulates how the drug is made, prescribed, and dispensed.

Which class of drugs is typically employed to treat ADHD?

Stimulants. This group of drugs has treated ADHD for several decades. These medicines might help you focus your thoughts and ignore distractions. Stimulant meds work for 70% to 80% of people.

Why is it illegal to sell ADHD medication?

State laws largely follow the government scheduling classifications when it comes to criminal penalties for controlled substances, so possessing these so-called “study drugs” without a prescription is a crime, and selling them — even if just to an eager classmate — may result in jail time and hefty fines.

Is Adderall considered a controlled substance?

Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. It is therefore considered to have a significant risk for abuse and the development of physical dependence.

What ADHD medication is not a controlled substance?

Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a non-stimulant approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD. It is in the class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Because atomoxetine does not have a potential for abuse, it is not classified as a controlled substance.

Why does Adderall help ADHD?

Adderall affects ADHD by reducing impulsivity and improving a person’s attention and focus. Adderall helps people with ADHD by enhancing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which increases activity in the central nervous system. People with ADHD have brains with low dopamine function.

Is having Adderall a felony?

Under California Health and Safety Code 11350 HSC, the illegal possession of Adderall is usually charged as a misdemeanor and not a felony. Illegal possession of Adderall (or Add’ll) means a person “possesses” the substance, or has it on his person or in a pocket, without a valid prescription.

Can a doctor just stop treating you?

Yes, your doctor can stop treating you for any non-discriminatory reason. While you have every right to end the doctor-patient relationship whenever you choose, your doctor does not. There are simple steps that your doctor must take to end the doctor-patient relationship.

What is a non stimulant drug for ADHD?

Strattera, also known by its generic name atomoxetine, is the only non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for ADHD treatment. Unlike stimulants, which affect dopamine, Strattera boosts the levels of norepinephrine, a different brain chemical.

What is the best therapy for ADHD?

There are other non-medication treatment options that have some research backing. Research has shown these alternative treatments to be somewhat helpful in relieving ADHD symptoms. These treatments and therapies include exercise, outdoor activities, omega supplements, mindfulness and changes in diet.

What is the latest treatment for ADHD?

A new long-acting medication, known as Mydayis, will be available to treat ADHD exclusively in teens and adults beginning in late 2017. Yesterday, the FDA approved Mydayis, a new medication for attention deficit disorder ( ADHD or ADD) designed for all-day symptom control in patients 13 years of age or older.

Is ADHD medicine a stimulant?

The ADHD medications prescribed to both children and adults are categorized as stimulant — amphetamine or methylphenidate — or non-stimulant. Stimulants are considered the treatment of choice for ADHD. Non-stimulants are prescribed to patients who don’t tolerate or see benefits from stimulants.