Medications Used to Treat ADD

Choosing a medication to treat ADD (attention deficit disorder) can be challenging. There are a number of available prescription medications that have been effective. Knowing the differences between them, understanding how they work and understanding the potential side effects can help you make the best decision possible to treat your condition or that of your child.

Stimulants

• Most people have heard of Ritalin. It was once the treatment of choice for patients with ADD and the first methylphenidate-based medication to do so. It is now part of a larger group of medications that stimulate the brain to help calm the body. The theory behind the science is that ADD sufferers do not receive sufficient stimulation from the everyday environment, leading to the behavioral problems, boredom and thrill-seeking behavior. Psychostimulants such as Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Focalin, Daytrana and Methylin help to provide that missing stimulation, thereby increasing focus and calming the patient.
  There are different forms of the medication available.

  Dextroamphetamine-based medications such as Dexedrine, Adderal and Dextrostat work similarly to the methylphenidate-based medications. Researchers are unsure of the reason, but often one medication will work while the other does not. If you are taking stimulant medications and not seeing any improvement in your symptoms, adjusting the dosage or switching medications may be the answer for you.

Stimulant Side Effects

• Side effects of stimulant medications include diminished appetite, headache, restlessness, mood swings, dizziness, depression, sleeping problems, increased blood pressure and increased heart rate. Extended-release and long-acting versions of the medications have less severe symptoms. If you have a history of cardiac problems or a family history of cardiac problems, your doctor may want to investigate other medications.

Nonstimulant Medications

• For some patients, a nonstimulant medication is a better choice. Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI (selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) that can be used to treat ADD symptoms in adults, teens and children. It works by affecting the brain's norepinephrine (a neurotransmitter) regulation to alleviate ADD symptoms and the anxiety that often accompanies the disorder. Possible side effects include abdominal discomfort, weight loss, sleepiness and dizziness. There is also increased risk of developing suicidal thoughts for children and teens taking Strattera.

  Alpha-2A adrenergic agonists such as Clonidine and guanfacine have had success in helping to manage the symptoms of children with the disorder. Both medications are traditionally used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and affect norepinephrine levels. Side effects include drowsiness, decrease in blood pressure and possible light-headedness.

Antidepressants

• Some antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) have had beneficial effects on ADD patients. The medication targets several brain neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and norepinephrine) and affects ADD symptoms much like psychostimulants. Side effects generally include diminished appetite, sleeping difficulties and increased blood pressure. Additionally, some antidepressants have been linked to increased suicidal thoughts and actions in some children and teenagers.

Considerations

• Working closely with your doctor will help to guide you in making the right medication choice for you or your child. Watch closely for side effects, and if you experience any severe side effects, allergic reaction or worsening of mental status, call your doctor immediately.