These non-stimulant ADHD medications were created to treat symptoms of ADHD and are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as safe, proven treatments.

1. Strattera (atomoxetine) was one of the first non-stimulant ADHD medications. Its generic name is atomoxetine. Strattera works similarly to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that are used to treat depression by raising levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in the brain. This can help the primary symptoms of ADHD: hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
2. Intuniv (guanfacine) is a time-release version of the central alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist guanfacine. It is taken once daily and is thought to affect receptors in the brain in a way that improves ADHD symptoms such as hyperarousal, emotional sensitivity, and social aggression with limited side effects. It is not a controlled substance and has a low risk of abuse or dependence. 
3. Kapvay (clonidine) is an extended-release alpha-agonist medication used to reduce blood pressure and relax blood vessels. It can also trigger the release of norepinephrine in the brain, which, in turn, can improve ADHD symptoms.

The most commonly prescribed antidepressant for ADHD is Wellbutrin.

1. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), meaning it slows down the reabsorption of dopamine and norepinephrine after these chemicals are released to the brain. This action makes these neurotransmitters more available and ready to send messages in the brain. 
2. Effexor XR (venlafaxine) is part of a newer class of antidepressant medications called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It is sometimes, but not often, used to treat ADHD due to its increased levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood or concentration. 

Tricyclic antidepressants have been shown to improve ADHD symptoms for some patients who don’t respond to stimulants. The options include: 

1. Tofranil (imipramine)
2. Desipramine (Norpramin, Pertofrane)
3. Nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor).

There is the most evidence for ADHD symptom control with desipramine, but tricyclic antidepressants can cause side effects that some patients find to be intolerable.

The most common side effects of antidepressants are nausea and vomiting, weight gain, diarrhea, sleepiness, and sexual problems.  Wellbutrin XR and Effexor XR generally do not cause as many side effects as tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs.

These medications have the same active ingredient as FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications and can be used to help treat symptoms of ADHD.

1. Clonidine (Catapres) is an alpha-agonist medication used to relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. The extended-release formulation, Kapvay (mentioned above), is FDA-approved to treat ADHD.
2. Tenex (Guanfacine) is an immediate-release central alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist with the same active ingredient as Intuniv (mentioned above).