Post by Mayleng on Oct 31, 2003 22:11:05 GMT -5
Quote:
The following are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. This list is not exhaustive.
Brand Name Generic Name Additional Information
Stimulants
Adderall = amphetamine Combination of amphetamine salts, believed to be longer-acting than regular methylphenidate.
Adderall XR = amphetamine Approved in Oct. 2001 by FDA, Adderall XR is an extended-release formulation of Adderall. Symptoms addressed in clinical trials included hyperactivity, impulsivity and the inability to work, focus and learn.
Concerta = methylphenidate Approved in August, 2000 by FDA. First extended release form. Unlike other extended release medications, Concerta uses a unique system that relies on osmotic pressure to deliver the active medication. Tablets cannot be split or broken. Doses are available in 18mg, 36mg and 54mg.
Cylert pemoline = This medication has been associated with acute liver problems, and the manufacturers are now telling physicians to discuss the risks and obtain patient consent before prescribing.
Dexadrine = dextroamphetamine Decreases distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Available in long-acting spanules.
DextroStat = dextroamphetamine sulfate Decreases distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. May also increase attention span.
Focalin = dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride Approved in Nov. 2001 by FDA. Once-daily treatment believed to block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into the presynaptic neuron and increase the release of these monoamines into the extraneuronal space.
Metadate ER methylphenidate Approved in April. 2001 by FDA. Extended release form uses a two-phase release process to deliver an initial rapid release of methylphenidate followed by a second continuous release phase. Designed as a once-daily treatment for AD/HD
Methylin ER = methylphenidate Approved in May, 2000 by FDA. Extended release form
Ritalin = methylphenidate Oldest available medication for ADHD. Still considered the "first choice" by many physicians.
Ritalin SR = methylphenidate Extended release form
Non-Stimulant
Strattera = atomoxetine HCI Approved in November, 2002 by FDA. A norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, this is the first non-stimulant medication for ADHD.
Antihypertensives
Catapres = clonidine = Comes in patches and tablets; often prescribed with a stimulant, Helps impulsivity, sleep problems, frustration tolerance, and activity; but not attention. Effects the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.
Tenex = guanfacine = Primarily for blood pressure problems, but has found to reduce hyperactivity, sleep problems, frustration tolerance; no known affect on inattention. Effects the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.
Antidepressants
Effexor = verlafixine = Introduced in 1993; thought to provide the benefits of both SSRIs and TCAs. Not typically used for children.
Elavil = amitryptyline = Tricyclic antidepressant, works on impulsivity, hyperactivity and defiance.
Luvox = fluvoxamine = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Norpramin = desipramine = Tricyclic antidepressant, improves mood, hyperactivity and emotional ups and downs; some effect on attention.
Pamelor = nortryptyline = Tricyclic antidepressant; has been effective on young children who are impulsive, hyperactive, and defiant. Monitor cardiac activity during treatment.
Paxil = paroxetine = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Prozac = fluoxetine = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Tofranil = imipramine = Tricyclic antidepressant, improves mood, hyperactivity and emotional ups and downs, and concentration.
Wellbutrin = buproprion = Works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Used to treat ADHD and depression; under a different brand name (Zyban) used for smoking cessation.
Zoloft = sertraline = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Anticonvulsants
Depakote = vaproate = This drug carries a warning about its use being associated with hepatic (liver) failure. Make sure you understand the substantial risks with this medication.
Tegretol = carbamazepine = Often used in combination with a stimulant when bipolar disorder also indicated; considered a mood stabilizer.
Antianxiety Medications
Ativan = lorazepam = Used to relieve anxiety and nervousness; slows down CNS
BuSpar = busiprone = Used to relieve certain anxiety states
Medication side Effects
Stimulants
Stimulants have been in use for over 50 years, therefore the long-term side effects are better known for this category of medication. To date, no negative long-term side effects have been discovered. In general, all the medications in the stimulant group have similar possible short-term side effects. They include:
Appetite suppression
Mild sleep disturbances
Transient weight loss
Irritability
Headache
Nausea
"Rebound effect" can occur when medication dissipates. This is typified by anger and frustration. It usually lasts only 15-45 minutes. Rebound can be eliminated by making sure that each dose lasts long enough for the next dose to take effect. At the end of the day, smaller doses can be given to decrease the rate of change in blood level.
When dosage is too high, motor tics may be unmasked, and depression and lethargy may occur. Tics will usually disappear if the dose is lowered. If they do not, talk with your doctor about the possibility of Tourette's Syndrome (TS). Having TS is no longer considered a contraindication for taking stimulant medications.
Non-Stimulants
The most common side effects in medical studies were
upset stomach
decreased appetite
nausea and vomiting
dizziness
tiredness
mood swings.
In short-term clinical trials with children and adolescents, a modest decrease in appetite was the most common side effect. Some children may experience a loss of weight when starting treatment. As with all ADHD medications, growth should be monitored during treatment.
In rare cases, Strattera can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling or hives, which can be serious. Your child should stop taking Strattera. Call your doctor or healthcare professional if your child develops any of these symptoms.
Strattera should not be taken at the same time as, or within two weeks of taking, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, or by patients with narrow angle glaucoma. Patients with a history of high or low blood pressure, increased heart rate, or any heart or blood vessel disease should tell their doctor before taking Strattera.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Contact your doctor or healthcare professional if symptoms.
Antihypertensives
These medications are often prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant since they do not treat many of the ADHD symptoms on their own. In general, the medications in the this group have similar possible side effects. They include:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Antidepressants
In general all the medications in the Antidepressant group have similar possible side effects. They include:
Headache
Insomnia
Weight loss
Nervousness
Constipation or diarrhea
Some patients experience a period of increased restlessness when first taking the medication. This can be experienced as agitation, anxiety, or insomnia.
When dosage is too high, there is a risk of seizures.
Anticonvulsants
These medications are typically not given to children whose only diagnosis is ADHD, but are used to treat co-existing mood disorders. They are powerful medications and need to be monitored carefully. Side effects are more common with these drugs than with some of the other groups. They include:
Headache
Insomnia
Weight loss
Decreased appetite
Vertigo
Tremor
Hair loss
Antianxiety Medications
In general, all the medications in the antianxiety group have similar possible side effects. They include:
Constipation or diarrhea
Difficulty sleeping, nightmares
Dizziness, drowsiness, clumsiness, or unsteadiness; a "hangover" effect
Headache
Loss of memory
Nausea, vomiting
Unquote
The following are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. This list is not exhaustive.
Brand Name Generic Name Additional Information
Stimulants
Adderall = amphetamine Combination of amphetamine salts, believed to be longer-acting than regular methylphenidate.
Adderall XR = amphetamine Approved in Oct. 2001 by FDA, Adderall XR is an extended-release formulation of Adderall. Symptoms addressed in clinical trials included hyperactivity, impulsivity and the inability to work, focus and learn.
Concerta = methylphenidate Approved in August, 2000 by FDA. First extended release form. Unlike other extended release medications, Concerta uses a unique system that relies on osmotic pressure to deliver the active medication. Tablets cannot be split or broken. Doses are available in 18mg, 36mg and 54mg.
Cylert pemoline = This medication has been associated with acute liver problems, and the manufacturers are now telling physicians to discuss the risks and obtain patient consent before prescribing.
Dexadrine = dextroamphetamine Decreases distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Available in long-acting spanules.
DextroStat = dextroamphetamine sulfate Decreases distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. May also increase attention span.
Focalin = dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride Approved in Nov. 2001 by FDA. Once-daily treatment believed to block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into the presynaptic neuron and increase the release of these monoamines into the extraneuronal space.
Metadate ER methylphenidate Approved in April. 2001 by FDA. Extended release form uses a two-phase release process to deliver an initial rapid release of methylphenidate followed by a second continuous release phase. Designed as a once-daily treatment for AD/HD
Methylin ER = methylphenidate Approved in May, 2000 by FDA. Extended release form
Ritalin = methylphenidate Oldest available medication for ADHD. Still considered the "first choice" by many physicians.
Ritalin SR = methylphenidate Extended release form
Non-Stimulant
Strattera = atomoxetine HCI Approved in November, 2002 by FDA. A norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, this is the first non-stimulant medication for ADHD.
Antihypertensives
Catapres = clonidine = Comes in patches and tablets; often prescribed with a stimulant, Helps impulsivity, sleep problems, frustration tolerance, and activity; but not attention. Effects the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.
Tenex = guanfacine = Primarily for blood pressure problems, but has found to reduce hyperactivity, sleep problems, frustration tolerance; no known affect on inattention. Effects the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.
Antidepressants
Effexor = verlafixine = Introduced in 1993; thought to provide the benefits of both SSRIs and TCAs. Not typically used for children.
Elavil = amitryptyline = Tricyclic antidepressant, works on impulsivity, hyperactivity and defiance.
Luvox = fluvoxamine = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Norpramin = desipramine = Tricyclic antidepressant, improves mood, hyperactivity and emotional ups and downs; some effect on attention.
Pamelor = nortryptyline = Tricyclic antidepressant; has been effective on young children who are impulsive, hyperactive, and defiant. Monitor cardiac activity during treatment.
Paxil = paroxetine = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Prozac = fluoxetine = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Tofranil = imipramine = Tricyclic antidepressant, improves mood, hyperactivity and emotional ups and downs, and concentration.
Wellbutrin = buproprion = Works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Used to treat ADHD and depression; under a different brand name (Zyban) used for smoking cessation.
Zoloft = sertraline = Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Known to treat mood and anxiety disorders, might actually increase impulsivity. Usually prescribed if patient has comorbid disorders that apply, then additional medication will be used for other ADHD symptoms.
Anticonvulsants
Depakote = vaproate = This drug carries a warning about its use being associated with hepatic (liver) failure. Make sure you understand the substantial risks with this medication.
Tegretol = carbamazepine = Often used in combination with a stimulant when bipolar disorder also indicated; considered a mood stabilizer.
Antianxiety Medications
Ativan = lorazepam = Used to relieve anxiety and nervousness; slows down CNS
BuSpar = busiprone = Used to relieve certain anxiety states
Medication side Effects
Stimulants
Stimulants have been in use for over 50 years, therefore the long-term side effects are better known for this category of medication. To date, no negative long-term side effects have been discovered. In general, all the medications in the stimulant group have similar possible short-term side effects. They include:
Appetite suppression
Mild sleep disturbances
Transient weight loss
Irritability
Headache
Nausea
"Rebound effect" can occur when medication dissipates. This is typified by anger and frustration. It usually lasts only 15-45 minutes. Rebound can be eliminated by making sure that each dose lasts long enough for the next dose to take effect. At the end of the day, smaller doses can be given to decrease the rate of change in blood level.
When dosage is too high, motor tics may be unmasked, and depression and lethargy may occur. Tics will usually disappear if the dose is lowered. If they do not, talk with your doctor about the possibility of Tourette's Syndrome (TS). Having TS is no longer considered a contraindication for taking stimulant medications.
Non-Stimulants
The most common side effects in medical studies were
upset stomach
decreased appetite
nausea and vomiting
dizziness
tiredness
mood swings.
In short-term clinical trials with children and adolescents, a modest decrease in appetite was the most common side effect. Some children may experience a loss of weight when starting treatment. As with all ADHD medications, growth should be monitored during treatment.
In rare cases, Strattera can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling or hives, which can be serious. Your child should stop taking Strattera. Call your doctor or healthcare professional if your child develops any of these symptoms.
Strattera should not be taken at the same time as, or within two weeks of taking, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, or by patients with narrow angle glaucoma. Patients with a history of high or low blood pressure, increased heart rate, or any heart or blood vessel disease should tell their doctor before taking Strattera.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Contact your doctor or healthcare professional if symptoms.
Antihypertensives
These medications are often prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant since they do not treat many of the ADHD symptoms on their own. In general, the medications in the this group have similar possible side effects. They include:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Antidepressants
In general all the medications in the Antidepressant group have similar possible side effects. They include:
Headache
Insomnia
Weight loss
Nervousness
Constipation or diarrhea
Some patients experience a period of increased restlessness when first taking the medication. This can be experienced as agitation, anxiety, or insomnia.
When dosage is too high, there is a risk of seizures.
Anticonvulsants
These medications are typically not given to children whose only diagnosis is ADHD, but are used to treat co-existing mood disorders. They are powerful medications and need to be monitored carefully. Side effects are more common with these drugs than with some of the other groups. They include:
Headache
Insomnia
Weight loss
Decreased appetite
Vertigo
Tremor
Hair loss
Antianxiety Medications
In general, all the medications in the antianxiety group have similar possible side effects. They include:
Constipation or diarrhea
Difficulty sleeping, nightmares
Dizziness, drowsiness, clumsiness, or unsteadiness; a "hangover" effect
Headache
Loss of memory
Nausea, vomiting
Unquote