The Side Effects of ADD Medication

Attention deficit disorder is a condition that is characterized by an inability to concentrate or pay attention to complete necessary daily tasks. ADD symptoms usually become noticeable when a child enters school. ADD is usually treated with a combination of medications and counseling.

Types

• Those with attention deficit disorder are most likely prescribed a stimulate or nonstimulate ADD medication. In some cases, antidepressant medications may be prescribed.

Stimulate Medications

• Stimulate medications include Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Adderall, Dexadrine and Vyvanse. Side effects include insomnia, irritability, stomachache, loss of appetite and weight loss; these medications may cause tics if the dosage is too high.

Nonstimulate Medications

• The only nonstimulate medication prescribed for ADD is Strattera. Side effects include sleepiness, nausea, loss of appetite and weight loss.

Antidepressants

• Antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin, may be prescribed when stimulants or nonstimulates fail to reduce ADD symptoms or when a mood disorder occurs along with ADD. Side effects include nausea, constipation, vomiting, dry mouth, headaches, insomnia, dizziness, skin rash, sweating, tremors, decreased sex drive, and either weight gain or weight loss.

Heart Side Effects

• Heart problems, some resulting in death, have been reported in individuals taking ADD medications, especially stimulate medications. In most cases, the individual taking the medication has an underlying heart defect or heart problem.