ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) refers to a medical problem associated with such symptoms as trouble concentrating, impulsiveness or overactivity. MedlinePlus says that symptoms include trouble listening, trouble playing quietly and fidgeting. Fortunately, ADHD medications exist to manage these symptoms.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant medication that works on the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is taken to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), ADHD and narcolepsy, a condition in which people fall asleep at inappropriate times.
Drugs.com says that methylphenidate's common side effects include sweating, visual problems, stomach pain, a poor appetite and weight loss. This drug can also lead to nausea, trouble sleeping, a skin rash and sweating. Contact a physician when this drug's common effects last for more than five to seven days.
Methylphenidate's serious side effects include restlessness, aggression, a sore throat, a headache and easy bruising. This drug can also lead to a pounding heartbeat, hallucinations, restlessness, seizures and a red skin rash. Notify a doctor when methylphenidate causes these effects.
Methylphenidate should not be taken if you suffer from glaucoma, chest pain, an overactive thyroid gland, tension, anxiety or high blood pressure.
Methylphenidate is available as a chewable or extended-release tablet or liquid that should be taken daily or as a doctor prescribes.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, commonly sold as Vyvanse, is another medication used to manage ADHD. Specifically, it is used to manage ADHD in adults and children between the ages of 6 and 12.
Drugs.com says that lisdexamfetamine's common side effects include a skin rash, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, irritability, a poor appetite and weight loss. This drug can also lead to a dry mouth and blurry vision. Call a physician when lisdexamfetamine's common effects remain for more than five days.
This medication's serious side effects include a pounding or fast heartbeat, low blood pressure, restlessness, hallucinations, motor tics and strange behavior. This drug can also lead to very high blood pressure. Signs of very high blood pressure include an excruciating headache, shortness of breath, chest pain, seizures and irregular heartbeats. Notify a doctor when lisdexamfetamine's serious side effects develop.
An alteration in lisdexamfetamine's dose may be needed if you have a history of an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, anxiety, tension, arteriosclerosis, agitation and alcohol addiction.
Lisdexamfetamine is a capsule taken once daily or as your doctor prescribes.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, commonly sold as Straterra, is another medication used to treat ADHD. MedlinePlus says that this medication is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that actually elevates the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This chemical plays a role in controlling behavior.
MedlinePlus says that atomoxetine's common side effects include nausea, heartburn, muscle pain, sweating, mood swings, a headache and dizziness. This drug can also lead to weight loss, decreased sex drive, strange dreams and a burning sensation of the feet, arms, legs or hands. Call a physician immediately when atomoxetine leads to these serious effects.
A change in atomoxetine's dose may be needed when taking fluoxetine, amiodarone, ritonavir, quinidine or sertraline.
Atomoxetine is available as a capsule taken one to two times daily.
