Adderall, ADHD, and Children

It is estimated that 2 million children in the United States suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. While some contend the problem is not as severe as the experts make it out to be as parents of children who might suffer from this disorder we have an obligation to educate ourselves as to some of the treatments available and well as the side effects of those treatments. One of the drugs prescribed to treat ADHD is Adderall, sometimes referred to as Adderall XR. Adderall is a very powerful drug so being educated about the risks of taking it are very important.

Adderall works on the central nervous system by affecting the chemical in the brain that are responsible for hyperactivity and impulse control. The effectiveness of this drug varies from person to person. It is very important to stay in contact with your doctor regarding this prescription drug and follow label directions and your doctors instructions. A health care provider will need to have a complete medical history of the individual that might be a candidate for Adderall. Adderall should not be used by those who have heart problems, severe anxiety or those who have a history of alcohol or drug abuse. If you are allergic to any drug your
doctor must know about this. Women who are pregnant or about to become pregnant must inform their doctor as Adderall may be harmful to an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are nursing a baby as Adderall can be passed through breast milk . Children who are taking Adderall may experience a slow down in growth or weight gain and your doctor should be informed of this if you notice your childs growth has slowed down or if they are not gaining weight as they should be. Some individuals who are taking this medicine may also experience insomnia.

It is very important to follow a doctors advice on the proper amount of Adderall to take. Taking this medicine in larger doses than prescribed or for a longer period than prescribed can have serious consequences. Follow the label directions exactly as they are printed. A overdose can be fatal. If you or someone you know has taken to much of this medicine get medical attention immediately. Keep all appointments with your doctor while taking this medicine and inform them of any unusual symptoms or conditions you might be experiencing. Adderall may cause slow reaction times or impair thinking so be careful such as when driving or doing things that require you to be alert.

Adderall is a very powerful drug so if you have any questions at all about it do not hesitate to contact your doctor or health care professional. Do not give up hope if you or your child suffers from ADHD. While ADHD seems to be a growing problem there are treatments available and research is being done daily on how to treat it. Be a informed consumer and know all the options available to you. Use common sense, stay in contact with your doctor and follow their directions.