Why are there so many types of adhd meds and which one is the best for me to use? my doc started me on ritalin (methylphenidate)

Different meds: There are many different choices for adhd because there are many different patients and situations. Your doctor is the best one to ask about the "best [medication] for me to use" -- s/he has talked with you, and is familiar with your symptoms and history. Please discuss this with your own doctor.

Many reasons: Some work better than others. Physicians preferences, side effects, duration of action (short or long acting), cost of medication, possibly impact of direct advertising to patients & articles & adverts in medical literature, presentations or lectures. Ritalin was about first effective medication used 4 adhd, can be very effective, is off patent & inexpensive generic methylphenidate available.

Variable response : It is estimated that about 30% of people with adhd respond better to one stimulant versus all others. Two criteria help you decide whether or not you are on the right medication: how well it helps you and how many side effects you are having from it. Ideally, the right stimulant addresses the target symptoms with minimal or no side effects. It may take some finesse to reach this balance.

There are only 2 : stimulants, methylphenidate, MPH, & and amphetamine. In 2000, the first long-acting MPH or " Ritalin" delivery system became available, with once-daily dosing. Now we have short, medium & long-acting preparations of both stimulants, each with a different onset, peak & duration of action. There are 3 non-stimulants, 1 of which is FDA approved for solo use or as an adjunct with stimulants.