Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly used drug for ADHD. It is classified as a stimulant because it works by enhancing the activities in the brain, especially in areas that play a part in controlling attention and behavior. Methylphenidate may be given to adults, teenagers, and children over the age of 5 with ADHD.
This drug can be taken as either immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) or as modified-release tablets (taken once a day in the morning, with the dose released throughout the day).
Popular side effects of methylphenidate are:
- a small increase in blood pressure and heart rate
- loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss or poor weight gain
- trouble sleeping
- headaches
- stomach aches
- feeling aggressive, irritable, depressed, anxious or tense