According to the National Institutes of Health, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects 3 to 5 percent of children in the United States, though it can also affect adults. Treatment for ADHD often includes medication to help control symptoms. Support, including parental classes or behavioral therapy for children, is also helpful. Diagnosis by a health care provider is appropriate for identifying the presence of the disorder and developing an appropriate treatment plan for the child or adult.
Methylphenidate
According to ConsumerReportsHealth.org, methylphenidate is best used in persons 6 years and older. Brand names include Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana and Methylin. It has been shown to be very effective in controlling behavior, including reducing restlessness and improving the ability to concentrate. Concerta is the longest-acting medication, at 10 to 14 hours. Rare cases of sudden death from stroke or heart attack have been reported.
Dexmethylphenidate
According to the National Institutes of Health, dexmethylphenidate's brand name is Focalin. It are best used in the evening after the long-acting dose wears off. A major long-term effect of the medication is the possibility that it may suppress growth. This medication should be used with caution in individuals with anxiety, tics or Tourette's. Likewise, it should not be used if a person has glaucoma, is taking any type of MAOI antidepressants, or has high blood pressure or other heart problems.
Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamine
Often marketed under the name Adderall, the amphetamine-dextroamphetamine combination is effective in treating and controlling ADHD symptoms. According to the National Institutes of Health, the medication falls into a class referred to as central nervous stimulants. The medication may cause some side effects, including nervousness, trouble sleeping, headaches, nausea or vomiting. A health care provider should be alerted if any of these symptoms are severe.
Dextroamphetamine
According to ConsumerReportsHealth.org, this medication is approved by the FDA for children ages 3 and up. It may cause more weight loss than medications such as methylphenidate. Brands names include Dexedrine, DextroStat and LiquADD. A similar medication, lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), is turned into dextroamphetamine once absorbed in the body.
Atomoxetine
Sold under the brand name Strattera, atomoxetine is approved for use in those aged 6 and older. It is effective in the control of behavior in single or dual daily doses. It is not a stimulant, so there is less likelihood of abuse in comparison to other ADHD medications; therefore, it is a good option for those with a history of substance abuse. A rare side effect is the increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior. There is also a rare risk of severe injury to the liver. Because it's fairly new to the market (since 2003), atomoxetine's longer-term effects are not yet know.
