Commonly Used ADHD Medications

ADHD medications for children has traditionally been stimulants such as Ritalin. Doctors are now finding that some patients respond to non-stimulants, antidepressants and combinations of drug treatments and therapy.

Because different children react differently to different medications, and ADHD is not a simple diagnosis, many doctors will use a trial and error treatment before settling on a prescribed medication.

Before any child begins an ADHD drug treatment program, he should have a thorough medical exam to determine any heart problems or other medical conditions that may interfere with ADHD medication.

Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication prescribed for ADHD. Stimulants increase levels of dopamine, which are associated with attention span, movement, concentration, impulse and motivation.

Three types of stimulants commonly prescribed for ADHD are:

• Methylphenidate, including Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate and Daytrana, are psychostimulants that stimulate the central nervous system and they have a calming and stabilizing effect on ADHD sufferers.
• Dexmethylphenidate drugs, such as Focalin, increase dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is essential to focus, attention span and other cognitive functions.
• Amphetamine-Dextroamphetamines, such as Adderall, and dextroamphetamines, like Dexedrine and Dextrostat, are effective in blocking the brain from reabsorbing the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine.

Side effects of these stimulants include mood changes, anxiety, irritability, nervousness, sleeplessness and stomach problems. These drugs should not be taken by anyone with heart problems. In some children, drugs used to treat ADHD actually make their symptoms worse and can lead to depression.

Non-Stimulants
The non-stimulant drug atomoxetine (Strattera) works by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain without the use of stimulants. 

Side effects include decreased appetite, some chance of liver problems, mood behavior and in some cases suicidal thoughts.

Antidepressants
Antidepressants are used to treat ADHD in cases where stimulants are not effective or possible.

• "Designer antidepressants" such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), reboxetine (Edronax), and venlafaxine (Effexor) affect key neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce ADHD symptoms.
• Tricyclics such as desipramine (Norpramin and Pertofrane), or imipramine (Janimine and Tofranill) help to control impulsivity. Side effects include dry mouth, constipation and drowsiness.
• Alpha-2 agonists, such as clonidine (Catapres) and guanfacine (Tenex) help to stimulate the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which helps concentration. These drugs are prescribed to ADHD patients with Tourette syndrome, severe tics, and who suffer from aggressive and impulsive behavior.

Side effects include sedation, which can be offset by the use of a clonadine skin patch.