Side effects attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Treatment goals for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder are to improve behavior, increase attention/response inhibition (ability to stay on task), and minimize side effects associated with pharmacotherapy. 

The increasing use of stimulants in the United States to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has aroused parental concern and compelled both medical professionals and the media to question the safety and efficacy of this type of treatment. Because ADHD is among the most common reasons for seeking mental health services for children, these questions are more pertinent than ever. This chapter will examine the history of stimulant use, the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, side effects, and issues related to their clinical use in children and adolescents. More detailed information on clinical applications is provided in Section III. 

Barkley, R., McMurray, M., Edelbroch, C., and Robbins, K. (1990) Side effects of MPH in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder a systematic placebo-controlled evaluation. Pediatrics 86 184-192. 

Buitelaar, J.K., Van der Gaag, R.J., Swaab-Barneveld, J.T, and Kui-per, M. (1996) Pindolol and methylphenidate in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Clinical efficacy and side effects. / Child Psychol Psychiatry 37 587-595. 

ADHD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder DD, developmental disabilities DEX, dexedrine MPH, methylphenidate N, total number of subjects in entire study n, number of preschool-age subjects in study SE, side effect. 

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