ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, afflicts many people, often children. Though therapy and regular sessions with a psychologist can help children manage their ADHD, many FDA-approved medications on the market can efficiently reduce the symptoms of ADHD, including the impulsivity and inattentiveness that characterizes the disorder.
Adderall
Adderall is a drug that stimulates the central nervous system, according to Drugs.com. It helps change chemicals in the brain that deal with impulsivity and hyperactivity in order to control both. Adderall can also be used to help treat narcolepsy. Adderall should be taken in the morning after eating breakfast, because the effects of the medication stimulates wakefulness, so if it is taken too late in the day, it can affect sleep. The pill is an amphetamine and can last anywhere from eight to 12 hours.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is another amphetamine that is often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to Drugs.com. The drug is comes in a sustained-release pill and can also be used to treat narcolepsy, like Adderall. Dexedrine has been proven to be effective but also has high abuse potential. It can lead to fatigue and depression after the drug has worn off for the day.
Concerta
Concerta is a methylphenidate used to treat both ADD, attention deficit disorder, and ADHD. Like Adderall, it stimulates the central nervous system to help control hyperactivity and impulsivity. Side effects of Concerta include insomnia, loss of appetite and fatigue. The pill lasts up to 12 hours, so it is important to take it early in the day so that it does not affect sleep.
Ritalin
Ritalin is a mild methylphenidate that stimulates the central nervous system. It can treat ADD, ADHD and narcolepsy. Ritalin, explains Drugs.com, is meant to be used in addition to therapy and psychological treatments. It is meant for children older than six years but should not be used in excess, as it can affect a child’s growth if used for an extended period of time.
Metadate
Metadate is a methylphenidate hydrochloride that can treat ADD, ADHD and narcolepsy, notes Drugs.com. The drug affects the central nervous system to increase a person’s control of hyperactivity. Side effects of the medication include fatigue and loss of appetite, so it should not be used for an extended period of time.
