Attention Deficit Disorder Medication Side Effects

Millions of individuals suffer from ADD, and many individuals with this disorder are prescribed one of various medications. The three most common and prominent drugs taken for ADD include Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexedrine. These medications were created to alleviate the symptoms associated with ADD, which include feelings of restlessness, hyperactivity, and agitation, but there are unfortunate side effects that ADD medications can cause.

Effects

• Each individual is unique and will respond differently to the prescribed ADD medication. Side effects can be unpredictable but there are several core side effects that are typical in most patients who take ADD drugs. These side effects include mood changes, dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite, stomach problems and headaches.

Warning

• One of the most concerning side effects of ADD medication is an increased risk of heart problems. The American Heart Association recommends that individuals who take ADD medications get a medical screening for heart problems prior to taking any drugs. ADD can cause cardiac arrest in people with heart conditions and an increased risk of stroke.

Drug Addiction

• Another potential medication side effect is dependency. Drug abuse among prescription medications is a disturbing trend that has affected many. Adults and students who regularly take ADD drugs have the potential to become addicted and begin abusing their ADD medication. Treatment centers for individuals suffering from prescription drug addiction offer one solution to this devastating side affect.

Rare Side Effects

• A rare side effect that has been discovered in ADD medications is hallucinations. An issue of Pediatrics Magazine ran an article that explained a small percentage of children who take ADD medication have visual or tactile hallucinations. For reasons unknown, these hallucinations specifically tend to include snakes, worms, or insects.

Natural Alternatives

• When taking ADD medication, there is a risk that the side effects can be more devastating than the condition itself. ADD medication should be approached with caution and careful consideration. Professional counseling and natural treatment options such as exercise, healthy eating, support groups, and sleep should also gain priority over medicinal approaches.