Hyperactive behavior is one of the primary symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, which is a condition that typically manifests itself during childhood. Because this disorder is thought to be caused by imbalanced brain chemistry, it can be treated using medications which seek to correct the chemical imbalances in the brain.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are one type of commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactive disorder. These medications work to increase the levels of a chemical called dopamine in the brain. A related medication is dextroamphetamine. As ParentsMedGuide.org explains, these medications come in both short and long-acting forms. Short-acting forms are typically taken two or three times a day, whereas long-acting forms only need to be taken once per day. Children taking these medication may experience insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss and irritability.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, the Mayo Clinic explains, is another stimulant medication that can be used to treat hyperactivity in children. Much like amphetamines, methylphenidate works to increase the levels of dopamine in the brain to help reduce hyperactive behavior. Methylphenidate can be taken orally, but the Mayo Clinic also notes that it can be administered as a patch which is placed on the skin. This patch contains nine hours worth of medication but can take a few hours to begin working, so it needs to be applied while the child is still asleep.
Atomoxetine
Hyperactivity in children does not have to be treated with stimulant drugs, the National Institute of Mental Health explains. Atomoxetine, which is a non-stimulant medication, was approved by the FDA in 2002 for the treatment of ADHD in children. This medication can be used to treat children who have intolerable side effects from using stimulant medications or for whom stimulant drugs are not effective. Atomoxetine can also be used to reduce anxiety, the Mayo Clinic notes. This medication can cause sedation and nausea and can, in some cases, cause liver damage.
Other Medications
There are several other medications which can be used to treat hyperactive behavior but have not been specifically approved by the FDA for this purpose, the Mayo Clinic explains. These include some antidepressant medications as well as the blood pressure drugs clonidine and guanfacine.
