How well do stimulant drugs work for treating ADHD?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects up to 10% of children and a smaller number of teenagers and adults in the United States. The cause is unknown and there is no cure, but medicines can relieve the symptoms by stimulating the brain and improving mental concentration, memory, and behavior.
Children with ADHD
Stimulants are the most common medicines prescribed for children. They include methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Concerta®), amphetamine
salts (Adderall®), and dextroamphetamine
(Dexedrine®).
Adderall® is being evaluated by the FDA due to some possible links to sudden unexplained deaths
in children.
The effectiveness of stimulants may vary depending on the age of the child. Research shows that
methylphenidate
improves behavior in 30 - 70% of children. Treatment improved attention and interactions with
mothers and other children.
Studies of children ages 5 to 12 showed that about 70% have some benefit from stimulant drug
therapy for ADHD. These children had improved concentration, school performance, self-esteem,
and relationships with family members. Methylphenidate, amphetamine
salts, and dextroamphetamine
work equally well, although methylphenidate may be slightly more effective for school-aged
children who have anxiety with ADHD.
Benefits of stimulants usually appear within the first week of treatment. Children who don't
respond to one drug may have more success with a different one. In some cases, a combination of
medicines works best.
Adults and Teenagers with ADHD
Studies of teenagers with ADHD have only tested one stimulant, methylphenidate.
Results show that between 30 - 70% of teenagers ages 13 to 17 benefited from the drug.
Studies show that an average of 54% of adults with ADHD responded to stimulant drugs. Stimulant
medicines used to treat adults include methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Concerta®), amphetamine
salts (Adderall®), and dextroamphetamine
(Dexedrine®).
Direct comparisons of methylphenidate, amphetamine
salts, and dextroamphetamine haven't shown any major differences in the effectiveness or
side effects of these drugs.
The benefits in teens and adults with ADHD include better school and work-related abilities and
improved family relations.
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