Long-term Effects of Common ADHD Medications

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that is often diagnosed during childhood, although it can occur in adults as well. ADHD causes people to have trouble sitting still, causing them to constantly fidget and move some part of their body. ADHD also causes excessive talking in many patients, inability to pay attention for long periods of time, as well as trouble listening. Children and adults with ADHD also have difficulty with impulse control and may even involve themselves in certain potentially destructive behaviors without considering the consequences. The most effective treatments for ADHD include a combination of medications and behavioral therapy. Some common medications commonly prescribed for ADHD are Adderall, Ritalin, Dexedrine and Cylert. These medications are quite effective, however they can cause a variety of side effects. These side effects are highlighted below.

Extensive research involving the generic medication Ritalin suggests that it can cause long-term effects on brains that function normally. This is why it is imperative that doctors accurately diagnose a person, since Ritalin can cause such effects on normal-functioning brains. It can sometimes be difficult to differentiate between ADHD and normal periodic hyperactivity and impulsivity in some individuals. The long-term effects of Ritalin include depression and ineffective coping in certain situations. These effects often don't subside when a person reaches adulthood, making it important for a parent to be sure that their child is diagnosed by an expert who has a great deal of experience making correct ADHD diagnoses.

Due to the fact that Adderall and Dexedrine are amphetamines and Adderall was initially prescribed for weight loss, either can cause drug dependence with continued use. Studies have also found that long-term use can gradually increase the heart rate as well as the blood pressure, which in some individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions can be dangerous. Adderall also causes a decreased appetite, which can lead to long-term weight loss and even possibly anorexia.

Cylert (Pemoline) is structurally different from Adderall and Dexedrine, although it works in a similar manner to address the symptoms of ADHD. Some possible long-term effects of Pemoline are stunned growth and weight gain in children, as well as possible liver dysfunction, including jaundice and hepatitis.

Despite the potential long-term effects of taking certain ADHD medications, most doctors feel that the benefits outweigh the risks in most individuals with this disorder. As long as persons taking these ADHD drugs are monitored very closely by their doctors, any long-term effects can be greatly reduced or even avoided.

References:

Center For Disease Control - ADHD Information - www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/ADHD/

Science Daily Article - www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/12/041220013546.htm

ADHD News - www.adhdnews.com/adhd-medication.htm

Mental Health - Drug Information - www.mentalhealth.com/drug/p30-c03.html