As a parent, placing your child on medication for long-term use can be a heart breaking decision. And while the medications available for the treatment of ADD may have a positive effect on the symptoms of the disorder, they don't help cure the disorder itself, making your decision even more difficult. This is why knowing as much as possible about the most commonly prescribed medications for ADD may make your job as a parent a bit easier.
Adderall, Adderall XR
Adderall, known generically as amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, is intended for children ages 3 and older. The generic name is derived from the stimulants it is composed of, and while it can also be used to treat narcolepsy, its main purpose is the treatment of ADD. Arthur Schoenstadt, MD, of eMedTV states that although most stimulants, such as coffee, may cause hyperactivity, they actually have a calming effect when taken in the proper doses by those with ADD.
It comes in tablet form and is typically taken twice a day. The most common side effects seen with this medication include loss of appetite, insomnia, abdominal pain, dry mouth, headache and weight loss.
Adderall XR is known generically by the same name simply because the main ingredients are the same stimulants found in Adderall. The difference is that Adderall XR is an extended-release form and is prescribed for children and adults ages 6 and older. Because it is released slowly into the body over the course of the day, it needs to be taken only once a day, first thing in the morning. It comes in capsule form, and its most common side effects are the same as its predecessor, Adderall.
Concerta
Concerta, another stimulant, is known by the generic name methylphenidate extended release, the main stimulant it is composed of. Concerta shares its generic name with another common ADD medication, Ritalin, because of the shared stimulant that is the active ingredient. The difference between the two medications is that Concerta is available only in extended-release form.
Available in tablet form and prescribed for children and adults ages 6 and older, this medication works in two ways. The outer layer of the pill dissolves quickly, releasing an immediate dose, while the inner tablet releases the medication in slow, timed doses throughout the day, providing consistent treatment for approximately 12 hours.
The most common side effects of Concerta are basically the same as those seen with any stimulant medication: headaches, insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss and nausea.
Ritalin
As mentioned above, Ritalin shares its generic name, methylphenidate, with Concerta. Ritalin is perhaps the best-known medication prescribed for the treatment of ADD, and, according to eMedTV, it needs to be taken two to three times a day. Dr. Schoenstadt recommends taking the last dose no later than 6 p.m., however, as it may make sleeping difficult.
While Ritalin is a common stimulant and shares many of the same side effects of other medications, it is accompanied by quite a few other side effects that the other medications do not cause. These include nervousness, drowsiness and dizziness in addition to headaches, loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain and insomnia.
Strattera
Strattera, also referred to by its generic name of atomoxetine, is the only non-stimulant drug available for the treatment of ADD. HelpGuide states that unlike the stimulant drugs, Strattera does not affect the same brain chemical; rather than working on dopamine, it effects norepinephrine. This has its benefits and drawbacks.
This medication is effective for those who may suffer from some form of depression along with ADD and does not worsen conditions such as tics or Tourette's syndrome. On the other hand, it also does not seem to be as effective at treating hyperactivity as the stimulants.
Another plus for this medication, though, is that it is longer-lasting. Rather than remaining in the patient's body for six to 12 hours, it lasts a full 24 until the next dose is taken. However, it may also take longer before it is completely effective, taking as long as six weeks to build up to full efficacy in the patient's body.
The most common side effects include sleepiness, headaches, stomach pain, dizziness, nausea/vomiting and irritability. It may also increase thoughts of suicide in some children and teens, especially if they already suffer from bipolar disorder or depression.
