Medication can be a valuable part of a treatment plan for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. Although doctors tend to prescribe stimulant medications most frequently, other medication options for the treatment of ADHD are also available. People with ADHD should discuss the potential risks and benefits of each type of medication with their doctor before taking any medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication that doctors prescribe to treat the symptoms of ADHD. The medications methylphenidate, amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and lisdexamfetamine dimesylate are included in this category. These medications work by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain, and boost concentration and focus for many people with the disorder. These medications come in short-acting and long-acting dosages. People with any type of heart disease or heart defect, or those with hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, high levels of anxiety, high blood pressure or a history of drug abuse should not take stimulant medications. Side effects may include difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, headaches, upset stomach, feeling jittery or restless, irritability, mood swings, dizziness, racing heart, tics and depression, says HelpGuide.org.
Stimulant medications have also been associated with slightly reduced growth in children, explains MayoClinic.com, so parents should discuss this concern with a doctor before giving the medication to their child. In addition, people taking stimulants for ADHD should call a doctor immediately if they experience shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, hallucinations, suspicion or paranoia.
Atomoxetine
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, also approved the medication atomoxetine for the treatment of ADHD. This medication, sold under the brand name Strattera, boosts levels of norepinephrine in the brain. It also has some antidepressant properties, explains HelpGuide.org, which makes it a good option for people with ADHD who also suffer from anxiety or depression. It doesn't appear to be as effective as stimulant medications for hyperactivity symptoms, however. Common side effects of atomoxetine include sleepiness, abdominal pain, dizziness, headaches, nausea and vomiting, agitation and irritability. Children or teenagers who take atomoxetine also have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts. The National Institute of Mental Health advises that children keep all appointments with their doctor and family carefully monitor the child for behavior changes while taking this medication.
Antidepressants
Despite the fact that the FDA has not approved of the use of antidepressants for the treatment of ADHD, some doctors still prescribe these medications for this purpose. These medications work by targeting multiple neurotransmitters in the brain, and can prove most beneficial for who suffer from both depression and ADHD. Bupriorion is the antidepressant most widely used to treat the disorder, according to HelpGuide.org.
Blood Pressure Medications
Like antidepressants, doctors sometimes prescribe certain blood pressure medications to treat ADHD, even though the medications are not FDA-approved for this purpose. Two medications in this category include clonidine and guanfacine. These medications may lessen symptoms of impulsivity, aggression and hyperactivity, but tend to be less helpful for problems with inattention. People who suffer from Tourette's Syndrome or tics in addition to ADHD may particularly benefit from these medications. Doctors generally prescribe these medications, however, only when stimulants and atomoxetine are ineffective.
