Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), now called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is the term used to describe a group of behaviors found in many adults and children. ADHD is the most common neurological disorder affecting 3 to 9 percent of school-age children as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although the specific cause of ADD/ADHD is not known, the symptoms are a result of impairments in the brain function that are linked to the level of specific neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals in the brain that are responsible for helping signals travel between nerves throughout the body. Medications that affect these neurotransmitters can be effective treatments for ADD/ADHD.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is the only non-stimulant medications currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating ADD/ADHD according to HelpGuide.org. Atomoxetine increases the level of norepinephrine, one of the neurotransmitters in the brain. This action helps to increase attention span and the ability to concentrate, but atomoxetine does not effectively treat the hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
Common side effects of atomoxetine include sleepiness, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, agitation and irritability. Although atomoxetine can trigger insomnia and loss of appetite, the risk of these side effects is much higher for stimulant medications.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is classified as a stimulant medication because it increases the levels of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved with pleasure, motivation, attention and movement, as described by HelpGuide.org.
This medication is available as a short-acting drug, which requires dosing 2 to 3 times a day, or as a long-acting medication that lasts for up to 12 hours. Methylphenidate can cause side effects such as dizziness, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, dry mouth, headache, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.
Taking methylphenidate for long periods of time is associated with inhibiting growth in children according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH also reports that there is a risk of sudden death in children and teens, especially for those with serious heart problems.
Dextroamphetamine
Dextroamphetamine is similar to methylphenidate in that it is classified as a stimulant because it increases the levels of dopamine in the brain. Dextroamphetamine is available as an extended release tablet that is taken 2 to 3 times a day, according to the National Institutes of Health.
The side effects include headache, dry mouth, restlessness, sleep disturbances, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite and weight loss. Like methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine does have a risk of sudden death, especially in those with heart problems, and can inhibit growth in children.
