What Medications Are Given to Children With ADHD?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects millions of children. Children with ADHD have difficulty staying focused and paying attention. They exhibit hyperactive, impulsive behavior. Treatment can relieve many of the symptoms of this condition, but there is no cure. Treatment usually involves both medication and counseling.

Symptoms

• Children with ADHD become bored with a task after only a few minutes. They struggle to pay attention in class, are often forgetful and may seem not to be listening when spoken to. They may squirm in their seats or talk continually. They tend to avoid tasks that require mental effort, such as homework or schoolwork. They have difficulty playing quietly or waiting their turn.

Considerations

• It can be difficult to diagnose attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder because there isn't a single diagnostic test. A parent may notice that the child seems especially difficult to control, or a teacher may observe that a child has trouble paying attention or following the rules.

Diagnosis

• If you suspect your child may have ADHD, talk to your child's pediatrician. The doctor will ask questions about your child's health, medical problems, symptoms and what issues are going on at home. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, your child must exhibit six or more signs and symptoms from one of two categories (inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity). For more information on diagnostic criteria, see the Mayo Clinic under Resources.

Medications

• Medications are grouped into two categories, stimulant and non-stimulant. Stimulants appear to balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They tend to improve the symptoms of ADHD, but they wear off quickly. They are available in short-acting and long-acting forms. Side effects include difficulty sleeping, weight loss and irritability. Non-stimulants are generally given when stimulants cause side effects or aren't effective. ADHD is sometimes treated with antidepressants. It is important that your child take medication exactly as prescribed. It is also important to realize that it may take a while before the correct type of medication and dosage is found. What works for one child may not work for another.

Untreated ADHD

• Although you may have some concerns about ADHD medications and their side effects, there are also potential consequences of leaving ADHD untreated. Untreated ADHD can lead to depression, alcohol and drug abuse, discipline problems and increased risk of failure in school.