Understanding ADHD Medications: The Basics
- Ankit Shukla
- Sep 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 17, 2024
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that can make it difficult for a child to focus, control impulses, and manage their energy levels. This can affect their performance in school and interactions with other children. One of the most effective ways to manage ADHD symptoms is through medications, alongside behavioral therapies and lifestyle changes.
Background on ADHD Medications
ADHD medications are usually separated into two categories:
Stimulants
Non-stimulants
Both of these medications help improve focus, energy levels, and impulsivity by increasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which can play major roles in ADHD.
Stimulant Medications
What Are Stimulants?
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They have been used successfully for a number of years with data to support their use. Even though the word “stimulant” makes us think that it would increase energy levels and make ADHD worse, stimulants do not increase energy levels when used at the correct dose. Instead, they help improve focus and attention.
How Do Stimulants Work?
Stimulants work by increasing the levels of some neurotransmitters in the brain (dopamine and norepinephrine). These neurotransmitters are important for attention, focus, and impulse control. By increasing the activity of these neurotransmitters, stimulants can help children with ADHD stay focused and reduce impulsive behaviors.
Common Stimulant Medications
Potential Side Effects
While stimulants are generally safe when used as prescribed, they can have side effects, including:
Decreased appetite
Sleep difficulties
Increased anxiety or irritability
It’s important to monitor your child’s response and work closely with their doctor to ensure that the medication is working as it is intended.
Non-Stimulant Medications
What Are Non-Stimulants?
Non-stimulant medications are typically used on children who do not respond well to stimulants or who experience significant side effects from stimulants. Sometimes stimulants and non-stimulants are used together to increase the medications effectiveness.
How Do Non-Stimulants Work?
Non-stimulants work by affecting norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. Targeting this neurotransmitter is linked with attention and response control which can help symptoms of ADHD. Non-stimulants don’t work as quickly as stimulant medications and sometimes can take a while to get to their full effect.
Common Non-Stimulant Medications
• Atomoxetine (Strattera)
• Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay)
Potential Side Effects
Non-stimulant medications can cause side effects such as:
Fatigue (tiredness)
Drowsiness (sleepiness)
Drop in blood pressure. It’s important to monitor your child’s response and work closely with their doctor to ensure that the medication is working as it is intended.
References
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline: AAP ADHD Guidelines
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Medication: NIMH ADHD Medications
Mayo Clinic - ADHD Medication Overview: Mayo Clinic ADHD
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - ADHD Treatment: CDC ADHD Treatment
Disclaimer
The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment