The most common types of treatment for ADHD include therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. Medication can help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity, inattentiveness and hyperactivity. It's important to learn about each individual medication before choosing one because they each come with their own side effects. Each child and adult may respond differently to certain medications, so it might take several attempts before finding the right one.
Stimulant Medications
The most common type of medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants such as methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine-amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. According to HelpGuide.org, stimulants are effective by increasing the levels of dopamine in one's brain. You can get these drugs in short- or long-acting dosages. The short-acting dosages must be taken two to three times a day whereas most people prescribed the long-acting variety take it just once a day. Long-acting medications are usually recommended, especially for children, because it's difficult to remember to take them multiple times a day. However, some long-acting medications don't start working for a few hours such as the methylphenidate patch; parents would have to put it on the child while he was still sleeping for it to work when he wakes up.
According to the Mayo Clinic, common stimulant side effects include decreased appetite, weight loss, problems sleeping and irritability when the medication wears off. Stimulants have become a largely abused drug among teenagers and young adults, so parents should monitor their children's intake. Make sure that children do not give or sell pills to other people.
Nonstimulant Medications
The only FDA-approved nonstimulant for the treatment of ADHD is atomoxetine, and it works by boosting the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. It's a long acting medication that is generally prescribed when a child or adult has negative side effects when taking a stimulant. According to HelpGuide.org, atomoxetine is not as effective as stimulant medications in treating ADHD. The Mayo Clinic reports that this drug can cause nausea, sedation, reduced appetite and weight loss.
Other Medications
There other two other types of medication, antidepressants and high blood pressure medication, that are prescribed to treat ADHD when stimulant and nonstimulant medications are not an option or cause negative side effects. They have not been FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD, so you should discuss these options in detail with your doctor before trying one. Antidepressants are usually prescribed for children who also suffer from a mood disorder. High blood pressure medications might help a child reduce insomnia, tics and aggression related to ADHD.
