Medications for a Hyperactive Child

Doctors are not sure what triggers hyperactivity and the development of ADHD, also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Thorough observations are performed to evaluate a child's behavior to determine the level of hyperactivity and any possible ADHD symptoms. Recent medical advances in medications for hyperactive children are those that offer once-a-day dosaging and even patches to wear instead of taking a daily pill. Parents have many options to choose from when looking for medications to treat a hyperactive child. The hope is that the child can succeed despite his behavioral challenges.

History

• When medications were first introduced for treating a hyperactive child, parents' only option was using Ritalin for treatment. There are now many medications, in pill and patch form, that have been successfully treating hyperactive children and those diagnosed with ADHD. Recent advances have led to advanced medication options and behavioral and cognitive therapies and treatment.

Types of Medication

• At least 80 percent of children respond to medications for hyperactivity, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. The most common type of medications used for hyperactivity are stimulants. like Ritalin (methylphenidate hydrochloride), which can be sprinkled on food if your child is unable to take it in pill form. Daytrana, a methylphenidate patch, is an extremely flexible treatment option, providing an alternative to pills. The patch can be worn for up to 9 hours. Focaline XR, Concerta, Metadate CD and Ritalin LA are forms of extended-release doses of methylphenidate and provide up to 12 hours of treatment. Adderall and Adderall XR, an extended release form of Adderall, is composed of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. Both forms of Adderall can be sprinkled on food, such as applesauce, for children who have difficulty taking pills. Similar to Adderall is Vyvanse, one of the more recent medications approved for hyperactivity and ADHD.

Side Effects

• Side effects of stimulants and antidepressants used to treat children with hyperactivity include trouble getting to sleep, loss of appetite, headache, stomachaches, social withdrawal and jitters. Severe sensitivity to stimulants may cause children to "overfocus" or seem sedated or "zombielike." Lowering the dosage usually remedies hypersensitive reactions.

Considerations

• Children who have difficulty taking stimulants for hyperactivity may be prescribed tricyclic antidepressants such as Mipramine, Desipramine and Wellbutrin (a.k.a Bupropion). Behavioral therapy and parent training is an alternative to medication for parents who aren't comfortable using stimulant or antidepressant medications on their children.

Warning

• By age 4, 40 percent of children show signs of hyperactivity and symptoms of ADHD. Diagnosis of hyperactivity and/or ADHD can be complex. The decision to treat your child for hyperactivity should be made with care and caution. As with all medications, your child most likely will exhibit at least one side effect. Weighing the severity of side effects with the benefits of treatment should be considered before deciding to use medications.