ADHD medications and side effects

Articles on the Side Effects of ADHD Medication
What are the side effects of short-acting stimulants?
The Side Effects and Types of Intermediate-acting and Long-acting Stimulants
What are the side effects and types of non-stimulant ADHD medications?

Articles on the Side Effects of ADHD Medication

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Your ADHD treatment will include medication. Many types of medications are available to treat ADHD symptoms.

Together, you and your doctor can determine the best medication for you. You will also decide on the dosage (amount), schedule (how frequently or when to take it), and the right schedule. Finding the right combination may take time.

The same medication may not be effective for everyone or for all ADHD symptoms. Treatments that combine medication, therapy and behavior change with skills training are often most effective. Multimodal treatment is what we call this.

The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD include

Stimulants. For several decades, this group of drugs has been used to treat ADHD. These drugs may help you concentrate and avoid distractions. Up to 80% people find that stimulant medications work. These meds are used to treat mild and moderate ADHD. These stimulants may help children, teens and adults who are having a difficult time at home, school or work. Some stimulants can be used by children older than 3. Some stimulants are only approved for children older than 3.
Non-stimulants. Non-stimulants may be helpful in cases where stimulants do not work or have unpleasant side effects. These drugs can help with symptoms such as concentration and impulse control.
Antidepressants. Many people with ADHD also suffer from depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The stimulant may be taken with an antidepressant or another medication to treat mental health conditions.

What are the side effects of short-acting stimulants?

Short-acting stimulants can cause jitters, irritability, sleep disturbances, and weight loss. You need to take them frequently.

The FDA has warned about the dangers of amphetamine stimulants. FDA safety advisors are concerned that amphetamine stimulants and methylphenidate used to treat ADHD can increase the risk of heart and mental problems.

The Side Effects and Types of Intermediate-Acting and Long-Acting Stimulants

These medications can cause side effects such as weight loss, jitters, sleep disturbances, and loss of appetite. The effects of long-acting medications may be greater on sleep and appetite. The FDA warns of the dangers of amphetamine stimulants. FDA safety advisors are concerned that amphetamine stimulants and methylphenidate used to treat ADHD can increase the risk of heart and mental problems.

What are the side effects and types of non-stimulant ADHD medications?

It can take some time for non-stimulant medicines to work. You may need to wait several weeks before feeling the full effect. They may also not work as effectively as stimulants. Non-stimulant drugs can increase the risk of teens having suicidal thoughts or committing suicide. The FDA advises anyone who is taking atomoxetine, or Strattera, to be on the lookout for suicidal feelings and thoughts. This is especially important during the first couple of weeks. These drugs can cause fatigue, nausea, dry mouth and upset stomach. When you stop taking these drugs, your blood pressure will often increase.

The Side Effects and Types of ADHD Antidepressants

Off-label, these medications can be prescribed to treat ADHD symptoms. This means that doctors can prescribe these medications even though the FDA has not approved them for ADHD. Side effects include difficulty sleeping, nausea and constipation.

ADHD Medicines and Safety

When properly monitored by a medical professional, experts generally believe that these medications are safe. Rarely do serious problems occur. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Treatment of ADHD and other conditions

Up to 80% people with ADHD have another mental condition, such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders and substance abuse disorders. These conditions and their treatments can have an impact on ADHD and vice versa. Some stimulant drugs can worsen anxiety symptoms. Your doctor may be able to safely combine treatment for ADHD and depression. Your overall mental health will determine your treatment plan.

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