Medications to Treat ADHD in Children and Adults

Medications to Treat ADHD in Children and Adults ADHD Treatment Print Medications to Treat ADHD in Children and Adults By Keath Low Keath Low, MA, is a therapist and clinical scientist with the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities at the University of North Carolina. She specializes in treatment of ADD/ADHD. Learn about our editorial policy Keath Low Updated on August 10, 2019 ADHD Overview Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Living With In Children Paul Bradbury/OJO Images/Getty Images In addition to behavioral therapies, medications for your ADHD can be very helpful in reducing impulsiveness and hyperactivity  and increasing focus and attention. Lets gain an understanding of prescription medications people with ADHD can use to feel better and improve their symptoms. Stimulants Stimulant medications  are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and have been found to be very effective in alleviating  ADHD symptoms. Stimulants  increase the level of the neurotransmitter dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity in people with ADHD. While stimulants are the classic medication of choice for ADHD  and are FDA-approved for treatment in children, about 10 to 30 percent of children and adults do not tolerate stimulant therapy or do not respond to it, according to a 2009 study in CNS Drugs. Also, some people respond to one kind of stimulant and not another. Some common side effects of stimulants include decreased appetite, insomnia, dizziness, increased anxiety, and/or irritability. Mild stomach aches, nausea, blurry vision, and a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate may occur. Understanding and anticipating these side effects is helpful, as they can affect your adherence or willingness to take the medication. If you do experience any side effects from your stimulant medications, please discuss them with your doctor. Also, be safe and dont stop or change the dosage of your medication without medical guidance. There are a number of forms of stimulants available, like shorter and longer-acting medications. Extended-release stimulants are those that provide longer-lasting, continuous level of medication. They dissolve slowly and release the drug over time. The older forms of immediate release require that medication be taken every 3 to 5 hours. Types of stimulant medications for ADHD include: Adderall (amphetamine; dextroamphetamine)Concerta or Daytrana (methylphenidate)Desoxyn (methamphetamine)Dexedrine or Dextrostat  or Zenzedi (dextroamphetamine)Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)Metadate CD, Methylin, Ritalin (methylphenidate)Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) Non-Stimulants The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a non-stimulant medication called Strattera (atomoxetine) for the treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults â€" its actually the first medication approved by the FDA for treating ADHD in adults. Strattera is a good option for people who cannot tolerate or take a stimulant medication for their ADHD. Its also a good option for people who are at risk for abuse or dependence on stimulant medications. Similar side effects are seen with Strattera, as with the stimulant medications, although they tend to be milder. These include loss of appetite, irritability, sleep disturbances, dizziness, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Other Medications Sometimes a person fails to respond to stimulants or Strattera for their ADHD or the side effects are intolerable. In these cases, a doctor may try another medication, like clonidine or guanfacine, which are FDA-approved in the US for treatment in children and adolescents. If a person can tolerate stimulants, clonidine or guanfacine may also be given in addition to a stimulant to increase its effects. Less commonly, a doctor may prescribe a medication like the antidepressant Bupropion to treat ADHD. Bupropion is  not FDA-approved for treating ADHD â€" meaning there is not enough scientific studies to back up its effectiveness and safety in treating ADHD. What This Means for You ADHD can be effectively treated with either behavioral therapies and/or medication. That being said, its important for individuals on medications for their ADHD to see their doctor on a regular basis. Be sure that your doctor or healthcare professional is experienced specifically with ADHD. For you, this means that youll be getting valuable input from a knowledgable source, who can better answer your questions about different treatment types. ADHD Discussion Guide Get our printable guide for your next doctors appointment to help you ask the right questions. Download PDF Medication benefits, side effects, and dosages need to be carefully monitored to ensure your safety and optimization of your health. If youre starting a new medication (or are already on medication) be sure to communicate any side effects, however minor, with your doctor as well. What to Know About ADHD Medication