According to Dr. Jeanne Segal, psychologist and managing editor of HelpGuide.com, the most common medications prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. These work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which in turn helps reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsiveness and lack of concentration. Non-stimulant medications are also available, but these are typically prescribed only when other medications have not worked or the side effects are too severe. Before making your decision, you need to learn about these medications and the possible effects they may have.
Ritalin
Ritalin is a stimulant medication that helps reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness by working on the chemicals in your brain. The experts at Drugs.com suggest using it in combination with a program that includes psychological and educational treatment.
This medication comes in many forms: chewable tablets, liquid suspension, tablets for swallowing and extended-release capsules. Ritalin in its original form should be taken 30 minutes prior to a meal, while the extended-release form can be taken with or without food, but it cannot be crushed or broken. The chewable tablet needs to be chewed completely before being swallowed, and the liquid suspension needs to be measured exactly, preferably with a dose-measuring spoon or cup. Drugs.com suggests taking this medication no later than 6 p.m. to avoid insomnia.
Common side effects include weight loss, stomach pain, vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia, sweating and vision problems. Serious side effects requiring immediate doctor's attention include hallucinations, aggression, easy bruising, rapid heartbeat, fever and sore throat.
Concerta
Concerta, like Ritalin, is a stimulant medication that reduces hyperactivity and impulsiveness by working on the neurotransmitters in the brain. It, too, should be used in conjunction with a psychological and educational treatment program.
Concerta is available in extended-release capsules that need to be taken 30 minutes prior to eating. To avoid insomnia, it should be taken as early as possible, preferably in the morning. Because it is an extended-release medication, the capsule cannot be broken, open or crushed; the medication is meant to be released slowly into your system through the day. Breaking open the capsule would result in too much medication being released at once. According to Drugs.com, an overdose of Concerta can be fatal.
Common side effects of this medication include loss of appetite, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, slight headache, dizziness, sweating and feeling nervous. Serious side effects that render it necessary to contact your doctor immediately include aggression, hallucinations, muscle twitches, easy bruising and purple spots on the skin.
Strattera
Like Ritalin and Concerta, Strattera helps reduce both hyperactivity and impulsiveness through the chemicals in the brain. However it is a non-stimulant; this means the side effects are not as harsh. According to Drugs.com, this is not meant for long-term treatment because it can slow growth in children.
Though typically taken once a day, a doctor may prescribe it to be taken twice a day; take it exactly as prescribed and be consistent. It takes approximately six weeks for Strattera to build up in the system; any interruption in dosing can prolong the efficacy of the medication.
Common side effects include slight irritability, drowsiness, insomnia, constipation and a skin rash. More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include chest pain, unusual thoughts or behavior, loss of appetite, dark urine, stomach pain, nausea and fainting.
