I've had boyfriends who have taken medication for ADHD. I've worked with kids who have taken it as well. One thing that some of them did was take a "medication vacation" once a week - usually they'd skip their meds on Sundays. But then during the week, they were able to focus better and get things done. Maybe you/he could speak to his doctor regarding taking the medications PRN.

Another thing that helped the people I knew was creating structures and routines and sticking with them. The more chaotic a person's environment is when they have ADHD, the more symptoms they will have. It's a bit easier if things are organized and the expectations are clear. Maybe he could see a therapist to see if any lifestyle changes could be made to help him feel better.

There is a non-stimulant medication - Strattera - that is approved by the FDA to treat ADHD.