Attention deficit hyperactive disorder, or ADHD, is the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood, according to data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ADHD can disrupt life, and many people seek treatment to remedy these problems. Numerous medications are available for the treatment of ADHD symptoms, and each medication has different benefits and side effects, and works differently within the brain.
Strattera
Strattera is a non-stimulant medication for ADHD and is used most often in cases where a stimulant is undesirable or contraindicated. Strattera is taken orally in dosage ranging from 10mg to 40mg and can be prescribed for morning or evening use. Strattera is not meant for long-term use. After Strattera treatment, another ADHD medication may be recommended. The FDA medication guide for Strattera reports that possible side effects include upset stomach, decreased appetite, nausea or vomiting, tiredness, mood swings, trouble sleeping and sexual side effects.
Ritalin
The first stimulant medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD was Ritalin, a central nervous system stimulant made from methylphenidate hydrochloride. It is designed to help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in patients with ADHD. Ritalin is federally classified as a controlled substance due to the risk of dependence and abuse. Ritalin is usually taken two to times a day, 30 to 45 minutes before a meal and may lead to insomnia, headache, insomnia or weight loss. In serious cases, an irregular heartbeat may occur, as well as aggression, restlessness, hallucinations, unusual behavior or motor tics.
Daytrana
Daytrana is a stimulant made from methylphenidate, the same nervous system stimulant as Ritalin. Daytrana is the same medication as Ritalin. However, it is administered through a patch placed on the skin, most commonly the hip or shoulder. The side effects of Daytrana are similar to those of Ritalin, however Daytrana may cause skin irritation at the location of the patch as well.
Adderall
Adderall is the prescription form of amphetamine, a stimulant similar to the substance methamphetamine. The FDA identifies Adderall as a controlled substance, and it is thought to work by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain to reduce ADHD symptoms. The effectiveness of Adderall for long-term use has not been evaluated, and side effects are similar to those of other stimulants, including insomnia, headache, insomnia, weight loss and irregular heartbeat.
Intuniv
Guanfacine hydrochloride is a nonstimulant medication, known as Intuniv, and is thought to help ADHD symptoms by directly engaging receptors found in the prefrontal cortex. It is important that Intuniv is used along with other treatments for ADHD, including therapy, because it is unknown if Intuniv is effective when used for longer than nine weeks or in children younger than 6.
