Attention deficit hyperactive disorder, also known as ADHD, is a condition marked by hyperactivity, poor focus and concentration. The National Institute on Drug abuse notes that approximately 8 percent of all children in the United States are afflicted with this condition. One common treatment for ADHD is the use of stimulant medications.
ADHD Causes
Although the exact cause of ADHD is not known, the National Institute of Mental Health notes that there appears to be a strong genetic component, as ADHD often runs in families. Patients with ADHD often have underdeveloped portions of their brain, though these abnormalities often go away as the patient gets older. Pregnant mothers who smoke or drink alcohol may also be more likely to have a child with ADHD.
Stimulants
ADHD is thought to be a result of low levels of dopamine in the brain due to abnormalities in the brain's structure and chemistry. Dopamine is a chemical that is involved in concentration and decision-making. As a result, patients with chronically low dopamine levels are likely to have problems thinking before they act and may be hyperactive. Stimulant medications, the National Institute on Drug Abuse explains, can be used to treat ADHD because they boost the amount of dopamine in the brain, which helps correct the neurochemical imbalance.
Types
Commonly prescribed stimulants for the treatment of ADHD include amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. These medications can come in pill, liquid or patch form. Some of these stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms which minimizes the number of doses needed each day. Different patients respond differently to different medications, so a treatment plan needs to be tailored to each individual.
Effectiveness
Stimulant treatment, according to ParentsMedGuide.org, can be effectively used to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Patients receiving stimulant treatment in combination with behavioral therapies typically fare better than those receiving behavioral therapy alone. Although some parents fear that use of stimulants may lead children to abuse drugs later in life, the National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that research does not currently support that theory.
Side Effects
Stimulant medications can cause certain side effects, though these can be minimized when the drugs are used properly, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Many patients report trouble sleeping and a diminished appetite. Avoiding taking the medications before a meal or late in the day can reduce these side effects. More serious side effects can include tics and personality changes. These side effects may require an adjustment in medication.
