Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a condition in which the brain is unable to filter out much of the stimulus a normal brain would every day. The person feels as if he is on overload and unable to concentrate on one subject; instead, he tries to focus on many. Some people use this to their advantage as it promotes a multi-tasking effect in which a person can focus on many subjects at the same time. There are a variety of medications available for treatment. As with all medications, not every medication will work the same for each individual. Medications for ADD are prescribed and changed by trial and error. The medications commonly used include Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and Vivance. These medications are part of the amphetamine group.
Stomach Aches
Children who suffer from ADD and take medicine to counteract it often complain of stomach aches from the medication. This often can be avoided by taking the medication after eating a meal. This will help the child avoid weight loss. This also will help to keep the ADD sufferer eating, since some medicine can cause a loss of appetite.
Headaches
Headaches are common with amphetamine treatment for ADD. These also can be avoided in many cases by eating just prior to the injection of the prescribed medication.
Rapid Heart Beat and Chest Pain
Amphetamines tend to speed up body activity and can cause such problems as rapid heart beats and chest pain. One solution is to ask the doctor to prescribe the lowest dose of the medication that still will help to control ADD. If this does not help, ask your doctor to try another medication.
Insomnia
Difficulty falling asleep can be caused by medications prescribed to treat ADD. Encourage a "wind-down" period for the child prior to bedtime. This may help the child fall asleep more easily. For older patients, taking the time to relax the mood before bed can help. For example, you could listen to soft music with subdued lighting for half an hour.
Seizures and Bronchial Spasms
Seizures and bronchial spasms are severe side effects of amphetamines. These side effects need to be treated immediately in an emergency room.
Tics and Stunted Growth
According to the Mayo Clinic, although it is rare, some children may develop tics or twitches from ADD medications. Lowering the dose generally can make these go away. Slightly stunted growth also may occur in some children, but this too is rare.
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