When you're told your child has ADHD, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions. And when medication is presented as the go-to solution, you're likely asking yourself the same question so many parents do in my office: Are the side effects of ADHD meds really worth it?
How Do ADHD Meds Affect the Brain?
Correct me if I’m wrong, but chances are, the first doctor you ever visited for your child immediately prescribed medications. Since they can relieve symptoms fast and directly, medications are the standard, default solution once a child is diagnosed.
Doctors either prescribe stimulant or non-stimulant medications depending on your child’s situation.
Stimulant VS Non-Stimulant Medications
Stimulant Medications
- How they work:
Stimulants increase dopamine – the “feel-good” hormone – in the pre-frontal cortex which plays a role in helping your child to focus, stay motivated, stay organized, control their impulses, and process information.
- Common types:
- Methylphenidate-based: Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana
- Amphetamine-based: Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine
- Effectiveness:
- Beneficial as a first-line treatment for ADHD
- Short-term effectiveness
- Common side effects:
- Appetite suppression, sleep disturbances, mood changes, headaches, increased heart rate or blood pressure
Non-Stimulant Medications
- How they work:
- Instead of directly enhancing dopamine like stimulants do, non-stimulants another group of neurotransmitters and work gradually over time.
- Common types:
- Atomoxetine (Strattera) – a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)
- Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay) – alpha-2 adrenergic agonists
- Effectiveness:
- It may take longer for children to experience its effects or none at all
- May be preferable for kids with co-occurring anxiety, tic disorders, or those who had negative reactions to stimulants
- Common side effects:
- Fatigue, low blood pressure, dizziness, stomach upset, mood changes
Side Effects of ADHD Medications
ADHD pills may help some kids focus, but they can also come with a host of physical and emotional side effects that can leave you and your family feeling even more stressed. From sleep issues to mood changes, the possible downsides of ADHD meds can be additional weight.
Common Physical Side Effects
- Appetite suppression and weight loss
- Sleep disturbances
- Cardiovascular issues
- Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Headaches
- Tics (in rare cases)
- Dizziness
- Stunted growth
- Seizures
Psychological and Emotional Side Effects
- Mood swings and irritability
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Potential for depression or suicidal thoughts
- Shrinkage of Frontal Lobe
Long-Term Health Implications
- Impact on growth and development in children
- Risk of dependency or misuse
- Possibility of rebound
Alternative Treatments to ADHD Medication
While it’s true that medication does give relief from symptoms of ADHD, most of it is temporary, and it isn’t the only path to follow – especially when you wish for a safer and healthier healing journey for your child. Many families I meet find success with a combination of natural and supportive approaches, especially when tailored to their child’s unique needs.
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Behavioral Therapy and Counseling
One-on-one behavioral coaching complemented neurofeedback helps kids build coping skills, manage emotions, and improve behavior over time.
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Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications
Nutrition, sleep, and movement all play a powerful role in brain health and focus.There are plenty of games and activities that help foster your kid’s behavior and executive functioning while they have fun!
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Mindfulness and Stress-Reduction Techniques
There’s power in breathwork, yoga, and meditation more than you know. They help support self-regulation and calm the nervous system.
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Educational Interventions and Support
Classroom accommodations and executive functioning coaching help kids thrive in school without added pressure.
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Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium has shown promising results in enhancing brain signaling and neurotransmitter function, improving focus and cognitive function in children with ADHD.
In one study, 72% of kids with ADHD were magnesium deficient—and those who took supplements showed noticeable improvements with minimal side effects (Baza et al., 2016)
Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback has become a promising complementary solution to ADHD. Paired with behavioral therapy and guided lifestyle changes including getting proper nutrition, it has shown to reduce the symptoms of ADHD (Gevensleben et al., 2012).
Neurofeedback uses Electroencephalography (EEG) and real-time feedback mechanisms to retrain the brain until it can help your child naturally focus, retain their attention, and control their impulses in the long run.
I had a 19-year-old patient who had difficulties focusing, following instructions, completing tasks, had low self-esteem, and suffering from the effects of Cannabis use. He worked with us intensively at our Connecticut Clinic for 5 days undergoing a series of therapies under our BrainBehaviorReset™ Program – including neurofeedback – and continued his therapy at home with the tools and equipment we provided.
After 50 sessions of neurofeedback, continuous therapy, and a holistic shift in his lifestyle, he was able to normalize his Beta and Delta brainwaves, improve his behavior, and become more independent.
(Read more about Brent’s story here)
How to Choose Which Alternative is Best?
Every child’s brain is unique. Hence, they respond differently to different interventions. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to treating ADHD, that’s why it’s important for your child to undergo a treatment plan specifically tailored for them.
Factors to Consider
Look at your child’s situation – what are their challenges, what are their strengths, and how is their lifestyle.
Consult with Trusted Professionals
Work with a qualified provider who understands ADHD and has a lot of experience helping kids specifically with ADHD. If you’ve met professionals who are only advising you medication, try consulting with doctors who also specialize in integrative approaches.
Weigh the Risks and Benefits
Every treatment—whether natural or medication-based—comes with pros and cons. The goal is to find what brings lasting relief with the fewest side effects.
Are ADHD Medications Worth It?
Children who take medication experience improved daily functioning as these meds help control their ADHD symptoms, including hyperactivity and inattention and impulsivity. However, the treatment might not work well for all, especially in the long run. As parents, we need to closely monitor our child's changes as they take these medications.
Exploring other, more integrative treatment approaches can be beneficial especially for children whose brains are still sensitive and developing.
What is Adderall used for?
Adderall is used in the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. It has shown to improve focus, attention, impulse control, and excessive drowsiness.
What does Adderall do?
Adderall is a stimulant medication. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain like dopamine and norepinephrine.
How to treat ADHD?
Treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of medication, such as stimulants, behavioral therapy to develop coping strategies, and lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and sufficient sleep. It's essential for individuals to work closely with healthcare professionals to tailor a comprehensive treatment plan suited to their needs.
Do SSRIs help with ADHD?
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are not typically used as first-line treatments for ADHD, as they primarily target serotonin levels in the brain rather than dopamine and norepinephrine.They can help manage co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression that can sometimes accompany ADHD.
Is ADHD medication bad?
When prescribed and used appropriately under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, ADHD medication can help manage symptoms and improve the daily functioning. However, like any medication, ADHD medications can have potential side effects and risks. It’s essential that you discuss your concerns about ADHD meds with your trusted healthcare provider.
Is coffee good for ADHD?
Coffee, which contains caffeine, may provide temporary relief for some individuals with ADHD by increasing alertness and improving focus. However, its effectiveness can vary greatly among individuals and it is generally not recommended for children.
Is ADHD medicine safe?
ADHD medications, when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional, are generally considered safe and effective for managing symptoms. However, like any medication, they can carry potential risks and side effects, which vary depending on the specific medication and individual factors.
How to tell if ADHD medication is working?
The effectiveness of ADHD medication can be assessed by monitoring your child’s changes in symptoms. Are they becoming more attentive? Do they still act on impulse?
Regular communication with a healthcare provider is essential to evaluate the medication's effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Can adhd meds help with anxiety?
In some cases, ADHD medications, particularly stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamines, may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, especially if the anxiety is secondary to ADHD.
Why do doctors ignore side effects?
Doctors do not intentionally ignore side effects, but they may sometimes prioritize the benefits of a medication over its potential risks. Additionally, not all doctors are well-versed in integrative health approaches that are safer and more effective long term.
Citations
Baza, F. E., AlShahawi, H. A., Zahra, S., & AbdelHakim, R. A. (2016). Magnesium supplementation in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Egyptian Journal of Medical Human Genetics, 17(1), 63–70. https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ejhg/article/view/130933
Gevensleben, H., Rothenberger, A., Moll, G. H., & Heinrich, H. (2012). Neurofeedback in children with ADHD: validation and challenges. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 447–460. https://doi.org/10.1586/ern.12.22
Lobato-Camacho, F., Lopez, J.C., Vargas, J.P. (2024). Enhancing spatial memory and pattern separation: long-term effects of stimulant treatment in individuals with ADHD. Behavioural Brain Research 475(18). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115211
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in ADHD who frequently is in the media:
- The Healthy 12 Silent Signs of Adult ADHD You Might Be Ignoring
- Fox5 News Natural Treatments for ADHD
- Evan H. Hirsch, MD – EnergyMD with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge (Video) Topic: Is it Brain Fog or ADHD?
Always remember… “Calm Brain, Happy Family™”
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to give health advice and it is recommended to consult with a physician before beginning any new wellness regime. *The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment vary by patient and condition. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC does not guarantee certain results.
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© Roseann-Capanna-Hodge, LLC 2024
Dr. Roseann is a Children’s Mental Health Expert and Licensed Therapist who has been featured in/on hundreds of media outlets including The Mel Robbins Show, CBS, NBC, PIX11 NYC, Today, FORBES, CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Business Insider, Women’s Day, Healthline, CNET, Parade Magazine and PARENTS. FORBES called her, “A thought leader in children’s mental health.”
She coined the terms, “Re-entry panic syndrome” and “eco-anxiety” and is a frequent contributor to media on mental health.
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge has three decades of experience in working with children, teens and their families with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, concussion, dyslexia and learning disability, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression and mood disorder, Lyme Disease, and PANS/PANDAS using science-backed natural mental health solutions such as supplements, magnesium, nutrition, QEEG Brain maps, neurofeedback, PEMF, psychotherapy and other non-medication approaches.
She is the author of three bestselling books, It’s Gonna Be OK!: Proven Ways to Improve Your Child's Mental Health, The Teletherapy Toolkit, and Brain Under Attack. Dr. Roseann is known for offering a message of hope through science-endorsed methods that promote a calm brain.
Her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetⓇ Program and It’s Gonna be OK!Ⓡ Podcast has been a cornerstone for thousands of parents facing mental health, behavioral or neurodevelopmental challenges.
She is the founder and director of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, Neurotastic™Brain Formulas and Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC. Dr. Roseann is a Board Certified Neurofeedback (BCN) Practitioner, a Board Member of the Northeast Region Biofeedback Society (NRBS), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) and an Amen Clinic Certified Brain Health Coach. She is also a member of The International Lyme Disease and Associated Disease Society (ILADS), The American Psychological Association (APA), Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
© Roseann-Capanna-Hodge, LLC 2024
