If you choose medication to control your or your child's ADHD (ADD), it is best to become knowledgeable about the different drugs, and side effects before making your final decision. Below is the most common drugs given to relieve symptoms.
I have compiled the information from different sources and spoke with children and adults who take that particular medicine. I do not refer to the maker's web sites. As always, questions and comments are welcome!
LONG ACTING STIMULANTS 8-12 hours
Focalin XR- Similar to Focalin only long lasting. Have heard of great stories, but my son had extreme irritability and anxiety. Since then I have heard of others that experienced the same thing. Inability to go to sleep due to the long acting formula, loss of appetite and nausea. High risk of abuse. Can slow a child's growth. Adults with heart disease should be cautious; there has been cases of of sudden death. MORE
Concerta - Well tolerated in teens. Have heard of cases were children had side effects. Long term use can stunt a child's growth. Loss of appetite and nausea is common. Last for 12 hours so you may have difficulty sleeping.MORE
Adderall XR- Similar to Adderall only extended release. Many have positive results, more so with females. However, many boys have had difficult side effects including severe mood swings or extreme weepiness when it wears off. This drug was taken off the Canadian market due to sudden deaths in children on the medication. MORE
Vyvanse- Newer drug. Most have positive results with the ability to focus. Works all day. The trouble with long acting is that you may have trouble getting to sleep at night.Be sure to take it as early as possible. Loss of appetite is common and the norm. Headaches and nausea are also common. MORE
NON STIMULANT MEDICATION
Strattera- Initial response is effective. There has been a relapse in symptoms after a year of use. Side effects are stomach ache, headache. Male side effects: erectile dysfunction. Teens may have depression. For some they see no difference on this med. Some people have experienced severe fatigue. When it wears off, you may tire rapidly and "crash". This is classified as a non stimulant drug. MORE
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