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Medication for ADD in Children

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is characterized by an inability to get and stay focused on a given activity or task. A child may be very easily distracted as well. ADD is a result of a biological problem with neurotransmitters in the brain. According to the ADD website, the best treatment for ADD is a combination of therapy and medication. Several different medications are currently prescribed to control ADD symptoms.

  1. Ritalin

    • Ritalin is a stimulate often prescribed to children with ADD. Ritalin works by affecting chemicals in the brain that may trigger hyperactivity and it helps with the control of impulses.

    Dexedrine

    • Dexadrine is also a stimulate prescribed to children with ADD. It also works by affecting brain chemicals that deal with hyperactivity and impulse control.

    Adderall

    • Children with ADD may also be prescribe Adderall. It is an amphetamine and it works by affecting chemicals in the brain that affect behavior and attention span.

    Side Effects of Stimulants

    • Stimulants may cause restlessness, sleeping problems, irritability, depression, decreased appetite, dizziness, headaches, racing heartbeat, tics and upset stomach. In rare cases, stimulant use can cause death in those with underlying heart problems.

    Strattera

    • Strattera is a non-stimulate. Strattera works by increasing norepinephrine, a brain chemical. The effects of Strattera last up to 24 hours, which is longer than the stimulate medications mentioned above. Strattera also helps with depression. Strattera may have the following side effects: headaches, abdominal pain, sleepiness, dizziness, nausea and irritability.

    Wellbutrin

    • Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that is sometimes prescribed for those with both ADD and depression. Side effects of Wellbutrin may include dry mouth, dizziness, constipations, irritability, headache, nausea, sweating, sleep problems and tremors.

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