Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) was renamed to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 1994 according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. This disorder describes a group of behaviors that affect many adults and children. For children with ADHD they are often seen as having a behavior problem because they have trouble concentrating, paying attention and often exhibit impulsive behavior that can interfere with relationships and schoolwork. There is no cure for ADD/ADHD but several types of treatments can help to control the symptoms. Because the cause of ADHD is linked to a lack of certain chemicals in the brain responsible for organizing thoughts and behavior there are several types of medications available.
Stimulants
The most-common drugs prescribed to treat the symptoms of ADD/ADHD are stimulants that act on the central nervous system. Methylphenidate is a commonly prescribed stimulant that increases the level of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, meaning it is responsible for helping to send messages between nerves, that is associated with concentration, motivation, pleasure and movement as described by HelpGuide.org.
Stimulant medications are available in short-acting formulations which must be taken 2 to 3 times a day and long-acting formulations which typically produce effects for up to 12 hours. Other stimulant medications include dextroamphetamine and racemic mixtures of amphetamines. These medications have proven effective in increasing concentration while decreasing impulsive behaviors, but also induce a number of side effects such as personality changes, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and more.
Antidepressants
Many children who suffer from ADHD also exhibit signs of depression. Because both disorders are linked to the levels of chemicals in the brain, certain antidepressants have shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD.
Buprion, classified as an atypical antidepressant, targets both dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain. The advantage to this medication, according to doctors at the Mayo Clinic, is that side effects are minimal.
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imaprimine and desipramine, target norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters.
High Blood Pressure Medications
Medications typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, also called hypertension, can treat some of the symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD. Clonidine and guanfacine, classified as 2-adrenergic agonists, can treat the symptoms of hyperactivity, aggression and impulsivity. These medications are not effective in increasing attention span. The most-common side effects include sleepiness and a drop in blood pressure.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is the only non-stimulant medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat ADD/ADHD as reported by HelpGuide.org. Atomoxetine increases the level of norepinephrine in the brain and is longer acting than most stimulant medications. It is; however, less effective in treating the hyperactivity.
Side effects include sleepiness, headache, dizziness and irritability. Although some may experience a loss of appetite or sleep disturbances, these side effects are more mild than those caused by stimulant drugs.
