For inattentive-type ADHD, did methylphenidate or an amphetamine work better for you?

Methylphenidate and amphetamine stimulants can both reduce ADHD symptoms in adults, but neither class has been shown to be the better first choice specifically for inattentive-type ADHD. A short-term network meta-analysis of about twelve weeks found that, on clinician ratings in adults, amphetamines, methylphenidate, bupropion, and atomoxetine were better than placebo; amphetamines were favoured over methylphenidate in some head-to-head efficacy ratings, but that comparison is not subtype-specific and is not proof that amphetamines are better for inattentive presentations. If the change is persistent, distressing, or affecting daily functioning, bring a brief timeline to the prescribing clinician rather than changing the dose independently. References: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6109107/ https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87/chapter/recommendations https://www.caddra.ca/wp-content/uploads/CADDRA_ADHD-Medication-Chart_May2026.pdf https://www.camh.ca/en/professionals/treating-conditions-and-disorders/adult-adhd/adult-adhd---treatment/adult-adhd---pharmacotherapy

Mostly inattentive here. Methylphenidate was the one I could work on without feeling chewed up, and the amphetamine trial was shorter because I felt edgy. I would not turn that into a rule about inattentive ADHD. Nobody in my clinic said one class is proven for this presentation. I just described what I could finish. Personal only, and I did not switch myself to test a theory.

I started on an amphetamine even though inattention was the whole complaint. It helped enough that we did not rush a class change. Sleep got worse, which I did not blame on the inattentive label. I still would not say amphetamines won for this type. Another person in my family did better on methylphenidate. This is only my first trial, not evidence about subtypes.