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Myths and Effects 
of Medications for ADD ADHD

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DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD Now What?

Purpose: to present choices to consider AFTER a diagnosis of ADD or ADHD.

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Published 10th, 20th & 30th of each month

** PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT! **
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Myths

Adapted from CH.A.D.D., American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, (AACAP), Parker, H.C., Storm, G., Committee of Community Psychiatry and Consultation to Agencies of AAACP, Peti, T.A., & Anthony, V.Q. (1991; Fall/Winter), CH.A.D.D.ER., 6 (3). 1: 7-9.


MYTH
Medication should be stopped when a child reaches puberty or the teen years.

FACT
Dosages may be adjusted for ADDers of all ages. Teens benefit from medications as readily as others diagnosed ADD/ADHD

MYTH
Children build up a tolerance to medication.

FACT
There is no evidence to support this myth.

MYTH
Taking medication for ADD/ADHD leads to a greater propensity for later dug addiction.

FACT
There is no evidence to support this myth.

MYTH
If a child responds positively to medication for ADD/ADHD, this confirms a diagnosis.

FACT
There is no evidence to support this myth. Even many children without ADHD will show a marked improvement in attentiveness when they take ADHD medications.

MYTH
Medication stunts growth.

FACT
ADD medications may cause an initial and mild slowing of growth in some children. However, over time, the growth suppression effect is minimal, if non-existent, in most cases.

ACTUAL RESEARCH SHOWS THE FOLLOWING

SIDE EFFECTS OF STIMULANTS

COMMON
Appetite suppression
Insomnia or sleeplessness
Minor changes in cardiovascular functioning
Behavioral rebound
Stomachaches and headaches

RARE
Medication-induced hyperactivity
Tics - onset or worsening
Emotional Lability or clouded cognitive ability
Psychotic behavior episodes
Impaired liver functioning
Lip licking


CONTROVERSIAL
Physical addition and tolerance
Decreased social interactions
Psychological dependence
Maladaptive attributions and beliefs about stimulants

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