Which of the following medications is a non-stimulant used for ADHD?

Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication used for the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Unlike stimulant medications, which primarily work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, atomoxetine functions as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. This mechanism helps to increase norepinephrine availability, leading to improvement in attention span and impulse control without the stimulant side effects that some patients may experience.

Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine are often preferred for individuals who may have a history of substance abuse, those who experience significant side effects from stimulant medications, or for children and adolescents who have conditions that may be exacerbated by stimulants. In many cases, atomoxetine can also be used as an alternative when stimulants are not effective or appropriate.

Stimulant options like lisdexamphetamine, methylphenidate, and dexmethylphenidate are all effective treatments for ADHD but operate through different mechanisms that involve increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine. Thus, they are classified as stimulant medications, distinguishing them from atomoxetine as the non-stimulant alternative.