Medications for ADD ADHD

The most common medications used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ADD or ADHD - are STIMULANT medications. Anti-depressant medications, and even anti-convulsant medications, are sometimes used as well, though this is less common.

The stimulant medications used to treat ADD or ADHD include Ritalin (Methylphenidate), Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine), ADDerall, and Cylert (Sodium Pemoline).

Ritalin is the most commonly used stimulant. ADDerall is the new "up and coming" medication, as it lasts about six hours per dose, and is less "harsh" than Ritalin.

We never recommend Cylert.  Never.  Pulled from use entirely in Canada, it may cause liver damage in children or adults. Besides, it is just not that effective for most people. The nutraceutical "Attend" is more effective using amino acids and essential fatty acids. If it's between Cylert and anything else, take the anything else.

We are not opposed to the use of stimulant medications like ritalin or adderall, provided that the physician knows what he or she is doing. We would prefer that parents try other interventions first, however, such as DIET and NUTRACEUTICALS .

Yes, we have hundreds of medication success stories . Yes, we have some horror stories as well. Remember, any medication, including Ritalin, ADDerall, Dexedrine, and other stimulants used for treating attention deficit disorders, can have bad side effects. That's why you must use a good doctor.

Read about the FDA warnings here.