Adhd tablets side effects
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Side Effects of ADHD Tablets: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to ADHD Medication Side Effects
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is commonly treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (MPH) and dexamphetamine (DEX). While these medications are effective in managing ADHD symptoms, they are also associated with various side effects. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide a clear understanding of the side effects associated with ADHD tablets.
Common Side Effects of Methylphenidate (MPH)
Appetite Suppression and Weight Changes
One of the most frequently reported side effects of MPH is appetite suppression, which can lead to weight loss. This effect is dose-dependent and often transient, meaning it can be managed by adjusting the dosage1 4. In a study involving children, appetite suppression was more severe with MPH compared to baseline ratings1.
Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances
Insomnia is another common side effect of MPH. Studies have shown that children on MPH therapy experience a significant increase in insomnia compared to placebo2. This effect is also observed in older adults, where MPH use led to a small but significant increase in heart rate, which can contribute to sleep disturbances3.
Cardiovascular Effects
MPH can cause cardiovascular side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. These effects are generally mild to moderate but require monitoring, especially in older adults3 8. A systematic review highlighted that both stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications could lead to small but significant increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure8.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
MPH can also affect emotional and behavioral states. Negative emotional symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and sadness were reported to be more severe with DEX compared to MPH1. However, some studies suggest that MPH may reduce symptoms like irritability and anxiety compared to placebo2.
Side Effects of Dexamphetamine (DEX)
Insomnia and Appetite Suppression
Similar to MPH, DEX is associated with significant side effects such as insomnia and appetite suppression. These effects were found to be more severe with DEX compared to MPH in a study involving children1.
Emotional Disturbances
DEX has been reported to cause more severe emotional disturbances, including irritability, proneness to crying, anxiousness, and sadness, compared to MPH1. These side effects highlight the need for careful monitoring and possibly choosing MPH over DEX for children prone to emotional instability.
Side Effects in Different Age Groups
Children and Adolescents
In children and adolescents, the side effects of ADHD medications are well-documented. Common side effects include appetite suppression, insomnia, and emotional disturbances. A comprehensive review indicated that these side effects are generally mild to moderate and can be managed with dosage adjustments4 7.
Older Adults
In older adults, the side effects of ADHD medications can include cardiovascular issues such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. These effects necessitate regular monitoring to ensure the safety of the treatment3 6.
Preschool Children
Preschool children may experience a higher number of side effects compared to school-age children. These include mood changes and anxiety, which are more common in this age group9. However, severe side effects are rare, and the medication is generally well-tolerated9.
Conclusion
ADHD medications like methylphenidate and dexamphetamine are effective in managing symptoms but come with a range of side effects. These include appetite suppression, insomnia, cardiovascular effects, and emotional disturbances. The severity and type of side effects can vary based on the age group and individual response to the medication. Regular monitoring and dosage adjustments are essential to manage these side effects effectively.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Side effects of methylphenidate and dexamphetamine in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a double-blind, crossover trial.
Both methylphenidate and dexamphetamine cause appetite suppression and insomnia in children with ADHD, but dexamphetamine causes more severe negative emotional symptoms.
RCT
Highly CitedPlacebo-controlled evaluation of Ritalin side effects.
The BSEQ effectively tracks Ritalin side effects in children with ADHD, identifying increased risks of insomnia, appetite disturbances, stomachaches, headaches, and dizziness, and decreased risks of staring, daydreaming, irritability, anxiety, and nailbiting.
RCTHighly CitedResponse and Side Effects Using Stimulant Medication in Older Adults With ADHD: An Observational Archive Study
Stimulants may be a relatively safe and effective treatment for older adults with ADHD, provided cardiovascular parameters are monitored before and during treatment.
Observational Study
Rigorous JournalAttention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and methylphenidate. A review of height/weight, cardiovascular, and somatic complaint side effects.
Methylphenidate therapy for children with ADHD has minor side effects, such as transient blood pressure, heart rate, and height/weight changes, that can be easily adjusted.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedDrug and placebo side effects in methylphenidate-placebo trial for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Parents and teachers may mistake ADHD symptoms for side effects of methylphenidate, leading to poor acceptance and compliance with medication.
RCTThe Risk of Methylphenidate Pharmacotherapy for Adults with ADHD
Methylphenidate therapy for adults with ADHD is well-tolerated but may not be the first choice due to its side effects.
Systematic ReviewMethylphenidate for children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Methylphenidate may provide benefits for children and adolescents with ADHD, but its long-term safety and effectiveness remain uncertain.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedCardiovascular Effects of Stimulant and Non-Stimulant Medication for Children and Adolescents with ADHD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Trials of Methylphenidate, Amphetamines and Atomoxetine
ADHD medications methylphenidate, amphetamines, and atomoxetine may have small but significant cardiovascular effects in children and adolescents, with a small to medium increase in heart rate.
Meta-AnalysisRigorous JournalHighly CitedShort-term side effects of stimulant medication are increased in preschool children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a double-blind placebo-controlled study.
Methylphenidate has relatively low toxicity in preschool children with ADHD, and some "side effects" are actually normal behaviors, with some being associated with improved behavior.
RCTHighly CitedBehavioral, situational, and temporal effects of treatment of ADHD with methylphenidate.
Methylphenidate treatment improves ADHD symptoms and oppositional behavior at school, but does not significantly impact home behavior.
RCTHighly Cited