Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder characterized by hyperactivity, lack of focus, inability to pay attention and difficulty with behavioral control. Someone with this condition may be predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive or combination hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive. Medicines for ADHD help to control the symptoms of this condition by improving attention and decreasing hyperactivity.
Stimulants
Stimulant drugs such as lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are used to decrease the hyperactivity and impulse control issues associated with ADHD. These drugs also improve attention. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are involved in hyperactivity, attention and aggression. The most common side effects of this drug class include loss of appetite, weight loss, headaches, extreme emotions and irritability. Some children taking stimulant drugs for ADHD may also experience slowed growth and tics (repetitive movements).
Antidepressants
Several types of antidepressants are used to treat ADHD. These drugs affect the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain the same way stimulants do, but they do not have some of the undesirable side effects stimulants have. Tricyclic antidepressants like clomipramine and amitriptyline have shown promise in treating ADHD, but the Neurology Channel indicates that more research is needed on their effects. Bupropion enhances the effects of dopamine so that aggressive and hyperactive behaviors are reduced. Venlafaxine works on levels of norepinephrine and serotonin and is effective for improving attention. Nausea, headache, dizziness, constipation, dry mouth and diarrhea are common side effects of antidepressants taken for ADHD.
Mood Stabilizers
Mood stabilizers that are often used to treat epilepsy can also be used to treat ADHD that is characterized by mood swings. Gabapentin and carbamazepine are examples of mood stabilizers used for ADHD treatment. These drugs are not approved for ADHD treatment by the Food and Drug Administration, and gabapentin may actually worsen some of the behavior issues associated with ADHD. Carbamazepine is associated with anxiety, hostility, rapid speech, agitation and suicidal thoughts. The most common side effects of gabapentin are clumsiness and uncontrolled eye movements. In children under the age of 12, the drug can also cause, aggressiveness, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, crying, depression, rapid mood changes, overemotional behavior and restlessness.
Antihypertensives
Antihypertensives are drugs used to treat high blood pressure. When combined with a stimulant drug, antihypertensives produce a sedative effect that can help control the symptoms of ADHD. These drugs are often used for children who cannot tolerate stimulant medications alone. Because antihypertensives can affect the heart, a thorough evaluation of the heart and blood vessels should be done before one of these drugs is prescribed to control ADHD symptoms. The most common side effects of antihypertensive drugs include headache, nausea, low blood pressure, drowsiness and dry mouth. Guanfacine and clonidine are examples of antihypertensives used to treat ADHD.
Non-Stimulants
Non-stimulant drugs such as atomoxetine hydrochloride are used to increase norepinephrine levels in the brain. This type of drug can be used by children and adults, and it is taken orally, with or without food. Some ADHD patients cannot take non-stimulant drugs, particularly those who have narrow angle glaucoma or who take MAO inhibitors. People with heart problems, liver disease, kidney disease, hypertension and low blood pressure need to be monitored carefully while taking this type of drug. Common side effects in children include decreased appetite, fatigue, mood swings, headache, abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea. Adult side effects include constipation, difficult urination, decreased appetite, dry mouth, insomnia, fatigue, nausea, erectile dysfunction and menstrual irregularities.
