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Treating ADHD in Children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a commonly diagnosed neurological condition. It affects more than 8% of children and 2.5% of adults. In children, ADHD can impact many aspects of everyday life, including school, daily functioning, and interpersonal relationships.

The treatment of ADHD in children generally involves several factors, including medication, psychotherapy, and educational interventions.

Some common medications used to treat ADHD include Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) and Ritalin (methylphenidate).

Symptoms and Types of ADHD

Symptoms of ADHD in children may include:

  • Inattention: Having trouble focusing, staying on task, or staying organized
  • Hyperactivity: Moving around constantly, even when it is not appropriate to do so; excessively fidgeting, tapping, or talking
  • Impulsivity: Acting without thinking; having difficulty with self-control; interrupting others

The three types of ADHD are:

  • Predominantly Inattentive Type
  • Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
  • Combined Type

Medications Used to Treat ADHD in Children

Some common medications used to treat ADHD in children include:

  • Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)
  • Ritalin (methylphenidate)
  • Intuniv (guanfacine)
  • Qelbree (viloxazine)

Intuniv

Intuniv is a non-stimulant medication that is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children 6 years and older. It is given as an orally administered ER tablet. Common side effects associated with the use of Intuniv include:

  • Lethargy
  • Appetite loss
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Irritability
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation

Qelbree

Qelbree is an ER formulation of viloxazine. It is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older. It is given as an orally administered ER capsule. Common side effects associated with the use of Qelbree include:

  • Lethargy
  • Appetite loss
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Irritability
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation

Summary

ADHD is a common condition among children, as well as adults. Treatment involves a combination of medication, therapy, and other interventions. Some of the common medications prescribed include amphetamine stimulants, such as Adderall, or methylphenidate stimulants, such as Ritalin or Focalin. What works for one child may not work for another, but many options are available. Working with your healthcare provider, you can help find the best prescription option for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I safely store orally administered ADHD medications?
    • These medications should be stored at room temperature (68-77 degrees F), away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not store medication in a bathroom. Keep ADHD medication and all other medications out of sight and out of reach of children and pets. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Are similar drugs used to treat ADHD in adults?
    • Yes, adults take many of the same medications used in children for ADHD. However, dosing may vary according to age. Also, some side effects vary depending on the individual’s age.
  • Can pregnant or breastfeeding people take stimulant medications?
    • Stimulants have not been studied in pregnant individuals, so not much is known about their safety. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. You can also consider other nondrug methods to treat ADHD symptoms during pregnancy, such as therapy and coaching.
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