Five Common Drugs for ADD

Millions of people have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD symptoms and are seeking relief through medication. Before you begin taking one of the commonly prescribed drugs for ADD, arm yourself with information about their potential side effects. Do your own research, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, and stay alert for side effects once a medication has been prescribed.

The following is a highly-condensed list of five of the most common drugs for ADD and the side effects most often reported for each:

·         Strattera  - A non-stimulant used to treat ADD symptoms. Most commonly reported side effects include dizziness, irritability, headaches, decreased appetite, sexual dysfunction, disruption of the menstrual cycle, and nausea. This list is not exhaustive; all potential side effects should be explained by your doctor or pharmacist before you begin taking the medication.

·         Adderall – An amphetamine-type stimulant frequently prescribed for attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD). Common side effects for Adderall can include back pain, irregular heartbeat, and painful urination with bloody urine. Ask your doctor which underlying physical conditions might be exacerbated by taking Adderall.

·         Concerta – Another of the commonly prescribed drugs for ADD, Concerta is a central nervous system stimulant. You may experience some or none of the side effects commonly reported, including rash, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and fever.

·         Ritalin – This is an older generation stimulant, one of the first prescribed for ADD symptoms. Side effects reported from using Ritalin are similar to those reported for Concerta, including chest pain, rash, fever, joint pain, and rapid heartbeat.

·         Kapvay – One of the non-stimulant drugs for ADD, Kapvay, also known as Clonidine, is usually used to enhance the effect of another ADD medication in children ages six to seventeen. Some of the possible side effects of taking Kapvay are drowsiness, dizziness, loss of energy, and constipation.

As with any medication, common drugs for ADD have their pros and cons. In addition to potential side effects, you should also be aware of drug interactions that can occur. Work with your doctor to decide which possible side effects would be the least disruptive for you as you are getting your ADD symptoms under control.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: NEUROFEEDBACK FOR ADD