Medications used for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) include stimulants (such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine) and non-stimulants (like atomoxetine and bupropion. In this article, we discuss the common side effects of stimulant medications.
Common side effects of stimulant medication for ADHD
These include sleep disturbance, reduced appetite, abdominal pain and anxiety. Not everyone will experience these side effects. Stimulant medications may cause a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate in 5 to 15% of individuals. Before starting medication, it is good practice to check blood pressure and heart rate, and repeat this regularly during follow-up visits. Most individuals do not develop hypertension or notice a significant difference in their heart rate when they take stimulant medications.
How to manage the side effects of stimulant medication
Avoid taking the medication in the late afternoon or evening to prevent problems with falling asleep at night. If medication causes a reduction in appetite, try to eat larger portions of food when the effects of medication has worn off. Increasing the intake of calorie-dense foods can also help you to meet your daily nutrient requirements. Avocadoes, eggs, whole milk, cheese and oily fish are some examples of calorie-dense foods.
