Larry Silver, M. To support our mission of providing ADHD education and support, please consider subscribing. Your readership and support help make our content and outreach possible.
Thank you. Expert review of neurotherapeutics, 7 2 , — Are there any studies that look at the long-term health effects of taking either methylphenidate or dextro-amphetamine for an extended period?
Changes in aging stress hormones or metabolism? Having experienced the rebound of short-acting stimulants myself, I am amazed that doctors still prescribe them. See below for a detailed description of my experience. I feel so sad for all the young kiddoes suffering daily rebounds, often at homework time, and the parents who are trying to manage the meltdowns.
I started taking it 3 years ago, and now both of my daughters as well as my sister do. She did have to go through a big rigmarole with her insurance, but they did approve it. I wish it had existed in when my younger daughter was diagnosed with ADHD at the end of 1st grade. However, she managed well good grades, good behavior — but would fall apart after school until this year — 5th grade was just more than she could handle untreated, and she was diagnosed with anxiety and depression.
When we recently switched to a pediatric psychiatrist with a top-notch reputation, she prescribed Vyvanse for both girls without blinking an eye. I would say that Vyvanse has changed our lives. I have no affiliation with any pharmaceutical company or anything else remotely related. I hope my recounting of our experience helps someone else.
Our lives would have been so much better had Vyvanse been available in I felt sick, but not like a flu. My 12 year old son has been on various forms of stimulants for 6 years. His level of focus has barely improved. Worse, I am now far more concerned that his growing body is not getting the nutrition it needs during this critical part of his life. And this is something I know about. As an aside, my mother came from a poor farm family with 9 kids.
It comes in doses of 18, 27, 36, and 54 milligrams. Concerta generic is also available. Vyvanse is a brand name for lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, a modified amphetamine mixture. It lasts 10 to 12 hours and comes in doses of 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 milligrams. Vyvanse is manufactured by Shire Pharmaceuticals and was approved in for ADHD and in for binge eating disorder. Both can offer a high — temporary psychological euphoria — through elevated concentrations of dopamine release.
Side effects for both Vyvanse and Concerta include appetite loss, an increase in metabolic rate, and increased energy. As such, many people are attracted to them as weight loss solutions. This can lead to dependency on the drug to maintain a desired physique. The potential side effects of taking either of these medications for weight loss appear to outweigh the potential benefits.
Which ADHD medication is the best? Your doctor may recommend Concerta, Vyvanse, or another medication. Speak with your doctor about any changes in your medication or if you have questions about your treatment.
Guanfacine and clonidine can cause drowsiness, fatigue, or a decrease in blood pressure. Most side effects can be relieved by:. After that, periodic monitoring by your doctor is important to maintain the best effects. Stimulants, atomoxetine, and guanfacine may not be an option for children who are taking certain other medications or who have some medical conditions, such as congenital heart disease.
Tourette syndrome is an inherited condition associated with frequent tics and unusual vocal sounds. The effect of stimulants on tics is not predictable, although most studies indicate that stimulants are safe for children with ADHD and tic disorders in most cases.
When taken as directed by a doctor, there is no evidence that children are getting high on stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate and amphetamine. At therapeutic doses, these drugs also do not sedate or tranquilize children and do not increase the risk of addiction.
If your child is on this medication, it is always best to supervise the use of the medication closely. People with ADHD are naturally impulsive and tend to take risks. But patients with ADHD who are taking stimulants are not at a greater risk and actually may be at a lower risk of using other drugs. Megavitamins and mineral supplements. Anti—motion-sickness medication to treat the inner ear.
Treatment for candida yeast infection. EEG biofeedback training to increase brain-wave activity. Applied kinesiology realigning bones in the skull. Reducing sugar consumption. Optometric vision training asserts that faulty eye movement and sensitivities cause the behavior problems.
Always tell your pediatrician about any alternative therapies, supplements, or medications that your child is using. These drugs come in several classes. They may also prescribe them if a person wants to avoid the side effects of stimulants. Atomoxetine Strattera blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain.
This lets norepinephrine work longer. The drug comes as an oral form you take once or twice per day. This drug is also available as a generic. Atomoxetine has caused liver damage in a small number of people. If you have signs of liver problems while taking this drug, your doctor will check your liver function. Signs of liver problems include:. Other forms of clonidine are used to treat high blood pressure.
Guanfacine is normally prescribed for high blood pressure in adults. This drug is available as a generic, but only the time-release version and its generics are approved for use in children with ADHD.
This drug may help with memory and behavioral problems. It may also help improve aggression and hyperactivity.
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