The condition once called "Attention Deficit Disorder" has gone through several name changes. It is currently referred to as "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder," a term first used by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1987 to acknowledge the hyperactivity that is characteristic in some ADHD patients.
In 1994, the DSM went on to identify three categories of ADHD: primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. The drugs used to treat these three types of ADHD have numerous potential side effects.
Weight Loss
The three stimulant drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD treatment are Ritalin, Adderall and Dexedrine. They've been known in some cases to cause loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) adds that slower growth rates and weight gain in children are a cause for concern. UMMC encourages monitoring the growth of children who are taking stimulants.
Trouble Sleeping
Stimulant ADHD medications can cause nervousness and sleeplessness. However, UMMC notes that some parents have stated that their children sleep better after taking stimulants for their ADHD.
Involuntary Muscle Movement
Tics, grimaces, twitching and jerky sudden movements have been reported in approximately 9 percent of children who take stimulant medication to treat ADHD. According to the Mayo Clinic, these symptoms normally vanish with readjustment of the stimulant's dosage levels.
Heart Problems
The rare, but tragic occurrence of death due to heart complications has been noted in some children taking stimulant drugs. UMMC warns that children with pre-existing heart conditions should not take stimulants. Adult ADHD patients with a history of heart disease are also at risk when taking stimulant drugs.
The American Heart Association recommends that children undergo a full physical evaluation, possibly including an echocardiogram, before taking stimulant drugs.
Liver Problems
When stimulant medications fail to deliver the desired results, doctors may prescribe a nonstimulant medication, known as Strattera, as an alternative. In rare cases, Strattera has been reported to cause liver damage. Patients taking Strattera should be monitored for any sign of liver dysfunction, such as yellowing eyes or skin, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Suicidal Thoughts
Mood changes, especially depression, can be cause for concern when observed in patients taking Strattera. Though no actual incidents of suicide cases have been attributed to Strattera use, UMMC notes that suicidal thinking may occur in patients of adolescent age or younger who are using the drug.
