OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, and ADD, more commonly called ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, share some common qualities such as compulsive behavior that the patient is unable to stop. As with adults, antidepressants are commonly used for children diagnosed with OCD. Stimulants are initially prescribed for ADD/ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants
According to the OCD Resource Center of Florida, Anafranil, Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox and Celexa are the common medications used for children with OCD. These have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in patients suffering from the disorder. The Mayo Clinic states that antidepressants are believed to reduce the compulsions of OCD patients because they help to increase levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that is often lacking in OCD patients. These may also be prescribed for ADD/ADHD patients who do not respond to stimulants, or who exhibit depression symptoms in addition to those associated with ADD/ADHD.
Stimulants
HelpGuide.org lists stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall and Dexedrine as the primary drugs of choice for children with ADD/ADHD symptoms. Scientists believe these drugs boost concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. The long-term effects of stimulants on developing brains in children, however, are unknown, and these should not be taken by patients with heart conditions. Stimulants may be prescribed in either short-acting dosages that need to be taken multiple times a day, or long-acting doses that only need to be taken once daily.
Non-stimulant Medications
For children with ADD/ADHD who should not take stimulants or who have taken them without positive results, non-stimulant medication such as atomoxetine, or Strattera, is usually prescribed. Strattera may reduce anxiety but can cause reduced appetite, nausea, weight loss and rarely liver functioning issues. The Mayo Clinic states that patients using atomoxetine should contact their doctor immediately if they experience or exhibit signs of depression and thoughts of suicide.
Other Medications
The Mayo Clinic states that clonidine, also known as Catapres, and guanfacine, also known as Tenex, are traditional high blood pressure medications that have been shown to reduce the severity of ADD/ADHD symptoms. HelpGuide.org states that these are not as helpful for attention problems, but can reduce impulsive behaviors. They may also help with tics caused by other medications.
