Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)is a commonly diagnosed neurological condition.
It affects more than 8% of children and 2.5% of adults.
The treatment of ADHD in children generally involves several factors, including medication, psychotherapy, and educational interventions.
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Some common medications used to treat ADHD includeAdderall (mixed amphetamine salts)andRitalin (methylphenidate).
However, more severe cases tend to be diagnosed earlier.
In children, ADHD treatment depends on their age.
For children with ADHD, symptoms can significantly affect the quality of life, especially in school.
ADHD can affect many aspects of school life, including completing schoolwork or homework and navigating social relationships.
Medications used for ADHD in children include stimulant andnon-stimulant medications.
The following content will provide more information about medication options for ADHD treatment in children.
This information is a general overview.
For more information and medical advice, consult your child’s healthcare provider.
Stimulants are considered first-line medications (the first choice of treatment) for children with ADHD.
These medications contain various forms of amphetamine or methylphenidate and have a calming effect.
They work by increasing levels ofdopamineandnorepinephrinein the brain.
Dopamine and norepinephrine areneurotransmitters(chemical messengers) that help with motivation, movement, focus, and attention.
Short-acting stimulants begin to take effect quickly after consumption.
Long-acting drugs require once-daily dosing.
A once-daily dose provides a treatment that lasts for the entirety of the day.
The choice of short-acting or long-acting stimulants (or both) will depend on individual factors.
Contact your child’s healthcare provider for more information and medical advice.
However, this is not always the case, as some children have better results with amphetamine medication.
Healthcare providers will consider many factors when determining the best drug for each individual.
Also, healthcare providers prescribe these medications at the lowest effective doses.
Adderall IR is available as a tablet that can be taken by mouth.
Adderall IR is a brand-name drug and is also available in generic form.
Adderall XR
Adderall XR comes in capsule form to be taken by mouth.
Adderall XR is FDA-approved to treat ADHD.
Adderall XR, a brand-name drug, is also available in generic form.
It is given as an oral capsule or chewable tablet.
Vyvanse is a brand-name drug and is also available in generic form.
In general, potential users should understand that the misuse and abuse of stimulants can cause overdose and death.
During treatment, the individual will be closely monitored for symptoms of abuse and misuse.
Dial 911if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you are having a medical emergency.
Focalin
Focalin is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and is given as an orally administered IR tablet.
Focalin is a brand-name drug that is also available in generic methylphenidate.
Ritalin
Ritalin is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.
It is given as an orally administered IR tablet.
Ritalin is a brand-name drug and is also available in generic form.
ER Concerta is a brand-name drug and is also available in generic form.
Concerta is taken once daily in the morning.
The pill should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
It can be taken with or without food.
Concerta should not be crushed or chewed.
Quillivant XR is a brand-name drug not yet available in generic form.
Before measuring the dose with the enclosed measuring equipment, shake the bottle well for at least 10 seconds.
Jornay PM is a brand-name drug not currently available in generic form.
Swallow the capsule whole; do not chew or crush.
Side Effects and Safety
Methylphenidate stimulants have the same boxed warnings as amphetamine stimulants.
And, like amphetamine stimulants, they carry the potential for mild and severe side effects.
Sometimes, the prescribing provider may recommend you stop taking the medication.
In some cases, a non-stimulant may be prescribed along with a stimulant for increased effectiveness.
Examples of notable non-stimulant medications are discussed below.
Strattera
Stratteracontains the active ingredient atomoxetine.
It is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older.
It is given as an orally administered IR capsule.
It is FDA-approved to treat ADHD alone or in combination with a stimulant medication.
Onyda XR can be used in people 6 years of age and older.
It is a liquid taken by mouth once daily at bedtime.
It is FDA-approved to treat ADHD alone or in combination with a stimulant medication.
Intuniv can be used in children and adolescents ages 6 to 17.
It is given as an oral ER tablet.
It is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older.
It is given as an orally administered ER capsule.
Treatment involves a combination of medication, therapy, and other interventions.
What works for one child may not work for another, but many options are available.
Working with your healthcare provider, you might help find the best prescription option for your child.
Do not store medication in a bathroom.
Keep ADHD medication and all other medications out of sight and out of reach of children and pets.
Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Stimulants have a high risk of abuse and misuse.
Keep track of the pills so you know if any are missing.
Yes, adults take many of the same medications used in children for ADHD.
However, dosing may vary according to age.
Also, some side effects vary depending on the individual’s age.
Stimulants have not been studied in pregnant individuals, so not much is known about their safety.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
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DailyMed.Label: Vyvanse- lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsule Vyvanse- lisdexamfetamine dimesylate tablet, chewable.
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DailyMed.Label: Focalin- dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablet.
DailyMed.Label: Concerta- methylphenidate hydrochloride tablet, extended release.
DailyMed.Label: Quillivant XR- methylphenidate hydrochloride suspension, extended release.
DailyMed.Label: Jornay PM extended-release- methylphenidate hydrochloride capsule.
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DailyMed.Label: Strattera- atomoxetine hydrochloride capsule.
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DailyMed.Label: Intuniv- guanfacine tablet, extended release Intuniv- guanfacine kit.
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