The long-term impact of ADD / ADHD medication on the youthful, developing brain is not yet known. The stimulant methylphenidate is the active ingredient in medication for ADHD and ADD. The medical community has not yet determined the long-term effects of having methylphenidate in the bloodstream for prolonged hours every day for numbers of years. Some researchers are concerned that the use of drugs such as Ritalin in children and teens might interfere with normal brain development.
Major Side effects are:
- Abdominal pain
- aggravation, nervousness, hostility, sadness
- drug dependence
- dizziness
- headache
- tics
- insomnia and prolonged sleepiness
- loss of appetite
- increased coughing, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infection
- vomiting
- allergic reaction
- increased blood pressure
- psychosis (abnormal thinking or hallucinations).
Heart-related problems — ADD / ADHD stimulant medications have been found to cause sudden death in children and adults with heart conditions. The American Heart Association recommends that all individuals, including children, have a cardiac evaluation prior to starting a stimulant. An electrocardiogram is recommended if the person has a history of heart problems.
Psychiatric problems — Stimulants for ADD / ADHD can trigger or exacerbate symptoms of hostility, aggression, anxiety, depression, and paranoia. People with a personal or family history of suicide, depression, or bipolar disorder are at a particularly high risk, and should be carefully monitored when taking stimulants.
Potential for abuse — Stimulant abuse is a growing problem, particularly among teens and young adults. College students take them for a boost when cramming for exams or pulling all-nighters. Others abuse stimulant meds for their weight-loss properties. If your child is taking stimulants, make sure he or she isn’t sharing the pills or selling them.
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