Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is characterized by being easily distracted and difficulties with managing time, organizing and concentrating. When a person also demonstrates high activity levels it is called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. A variety of stimulant medications, such as Ritalin and Adderall, and non-stimulant medications, such as Straterra, may be prescribed to address behaviors that interfere with school performance. All of these medications have possible side effects, including weight loss and a slowing down of growth.
Ritalin
Ritalin (Methylphenidate hydrochloride) is the most commonly prescribed medication to treat children with attention deficit disorder. Although it is a stimulant and normally makes people more alert, it has the opposite affect on children with the disorder. Ritalin helps to control attention and impulsivity by increasing the activity of the neural chemicals--dopamine and noradrenaline. The manufacturers list loss of appetite and slowing down of growth as possible side effects. Parents should regularly record a child's height, weight and appetite and check with a doctor every six months to see if growth gains are satisfactory.
Concerta
Concerta is another form of Methylphenidate hydrochloride. However, unlike Ritalin it is long acting. It can cause weight loss and temporarily slow down growth, especially in small children. However, they usually catch up and grow to be within normal limits over time.
Adderall
Adderall is another commonly prescribed stimulant. Possible side effects include weight loss and the suppression of appetite. The form called Adderall XR is designed to release slowly so that it can be taken just once a day. Adderall XR may cause growth suppression and weight loss.
Straterra
Straterra is a non-stimulant medication that is considered a safe and effective alternative to stimulant medications. However, one study showed that children between seven and nine years of age who were followed over a three-year period grew about .5 inches a year slower than non-medicated children. Straterra is a relatively new medication and further studies are needed to determine if a child's growth catches up over time.
Less Commonly Used Medications
Dexedrine is an amphetamine sometimes prescribed to treat attention deficit disorder. It suppresses the appetite so well that it had been widely used as a diet pill during the 1960s. It is a controlled substance that has been used as a street drug and is highly addictive. There are many possible serious side effects to this medication including stunted growth. Prozac is a medication commonly prescribed to treat depression and anxiety, but may also be used to treat ADD. Studies have shown that Prozac may impair bone growth. It appears that many medications that are used to treat attention disorder have the potential side effect of stunting growth and should be carefully monitored.
References
- Beyond ADD; Thom Hartmann; 1996
- No More Ritalin: Treating ADHD without Drugs; Mary Ann block, M.D.; 1996
- ADHD medications
