Stimulants for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The most common (affecting about 50 out of 100 people) side effects of stimulants are usually related to the dose and go away after the first 2 to 3 weeks on the medicine. Persistent side effects can usually be relieved by changing the dosage level, changing when the medicine is given, or trying a different type of stimulant. The most common side effects include:

• Decreased appetite. About 80 out of 100 people have decreased appetite. The appetite is usually least during the daytime, increasing in the evening. If the medicine is given after meals and snacks are added, especially in the evening, it may help improve the child's appetite and prevent weight loss.
• Difficulty falling asleep.

Other side effects are also usually temporary or go away with dosage adjustment. These include:

• Stomachache.
• Headache.
• Slightly increased blood pressure (in black males).

Long-term use of stimulant medicine appears to be safe and effective.^{Reference 2}

Stimulant medicines may be related to slower growth in children, especially in the first year of taking the medicine. But most children seem to catch up in height and weight by adulthood. Your doctor will keep track your child's growth and watch for problems.^{Reference 2}

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

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