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Information on A.D.D./A.D.H.D.
INFORMATION ON RITALIN AND OTHER PSYCHOSTIMULANTS
(LINKS AT THE BOTTOM OF PAGE)
Psychostimulants are the most widely used medication for the management of ADD/ADHD related symptoms. 70-80% of children with this disorder respond positively to psychostimulants. These medications decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity, increase attention, and in some children, decrease aggression.
Psychostimulants used in the treatment of ADD/ADHD include Ritalin (methylphenidate) - the most widely prescribed medication - Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), and Cylert (pemoline). Another medication more recently approved in the U.S. is called Adderall. The specific dose of medicine must be determined for each child. To ensure proper dosage, regular monitoring at different levels of medication is required. Periodic trials off medication are conducted to determine continued need.
The most common side effects of psychostimulants are reduction in appetite, loss of weight, headache, nausea, and problems in falling asleep. These side effects are usually managed by changing the dose of the medication.
Psychostimulants have been found to have a limited length of effectiveness. Usually the positive effects of the medications stop as soon as the drugs are discontinued.
Antidepressants, used less frequently for ADD/ADHD, have been shown to be effective with some children. They are used when contraindications to psychostimulants exist, or when psychostimulants have been ineffective or have resulted in unacceptable side effects.
LINKS TO SITES ABOUT STIMULANT MEDICATIONS:
INTERNET MENTAL HEALTH DRUG MONOGRAPH: RITALIN
CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOLOGY Dr. Peter Breggin is much against the use of stimulant medication
P.A.R. PARENTS AGAINST RITALIN A U.S. parent group against the overuse of Ritalin