Drugs used to Treat Attention Deficit Disorder

Four Drugs Used to Treat Attention Deficit Disorder

Attention deficit disorder is a syndrome or cluster of symptoms, usually first noticed in childhood that may be related to the structure of the brain. Typical symptoms of attention deficit disorder include impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. So far, medication seems to provide the most effective treatment for sufferers of attention deficit disorder. There are several attention deficit disorder drugs.

Attention Deficit Disorder Drug #1: Ritalin

Ritalin, also known as methylphenidate, is a stimulant. It is probably the best known attention deficit disorder drug. Researchers are not sure exactly why Ritalin seems to relieve the symptoms of attention deficit disorder, but their best guess is that it increases dopamine levels which in turn help to increase attention and focus. Ritalin is short acting, and the child usually needs to take a pill in the morning and another during school hours to help control symptoms.

Doctors usually start their patients on a low amount of Ritalin and slowly increase the dosage as needed. Used correctly the risk for addiction is low. There have been reports, however, of teens using large doses of Ritalin inappropriately to get high or to lose weight.

Attention Deficit Disorder Drug #2: Adderall

Adderall is considered a "cocktail drug" because it is a combination of four different kinds of amphetamine salts. Like Ritalin, it acts as a central nervous system stimulant. Adderall lasts about six hours, so kids can usually get through the school day without having to take an extra dose.

Parents may be interested to learn that Adderall was initially marketed as a weight loss drug under the name "Obetrol." The potential for abuse and misuse, especially among children who don't have attention deficit disorder, is high.

Attention Deficit Disorder Drug #3: Concerta

Concerta is a relatively new offering in the field of attention deficit disorder drugs. It contains the same medication found in Ritalin, but it is designed to last for a period of twelve hours. One part of the pill dissolves quickly, so the child gets immediate relief from symptoms. Two other parts of the pill dissolve over time so that the symptom relief continues throughout the day.

Concerta tablets cannot be crushed, cut, or chewed. Concerta is contraindicated for children with anxiety disorders.

Attention Deficit Disorder Drug #4: Strattera

Strattera is the first truly innovative attention deficit disorder drug to come along in years. It is not a stimulant. It works by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in the brain. Unlike the stimulants, Strattera may be taken even if the patient has a co-existing anxiety disorder. Its potential for abuse or misuse is very low.

  Drugs used to Treat Attention Deficit Disorder