ask your pharmacist

back to: pharmacy | ask your pharmacist

Are there any prescription treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is identified by symptoms of short attention span, lack of behavior control, and/or hyperactivity that aren’t appropriate for the person’s age. While it may seem contradictory, the drug treatment of choice for ADHD is stimulant medicines. They include methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin or Concerta), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). These medicines are the most widely studied and are effective in treating ADHD. Side effects are usually mild and can be lessened by changing the dose or time of taking the medicine. The most common side effects are decreased appetite, headache, short temper, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and dizziness. Physical and psychological dependence on these medicines is rare when they’re taken under the care of physician. Other non-stimulant medicines that are prescribed include atomoxetine (Strattera), clonidine (>Catapres), and antidepressants such as imipramine (>Tofranil), desipramine (>Norpramin), and bupropion (>Wellbutrin). There have been some safety issues with Adderall and Strattera, so be sure to discuss the best options for yourself or your child with your doctor.

Medications in combination with educational, behavioral, and school based therapies seem to be the best way to treat ADHD. Any therapy should be tailored to meet the needs of the person and his or her family.

Sources:
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1997.
Goldman L. “Diagnosis And Treatment Of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder In Children And Adolescents,” Journal of the American Medical Association, 279 (1998).
Spencer T. “Pharmacotherapy Of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Across The Life-Cycle,” Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 35 (1996).
Concerta Product Information, Alza Corporation, July 2000.
Diseases and Conditions, "Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)."http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/9/2007.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.

This answer prepared 8/7/2000.
This information updated 1/9/2007.