When your child is diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), treatment with medication is often recommended. However, there are challenges parents face when it comes to finding the right type of medication and dosage since these differ in kids with ADHD. Learn more about these challenges and how you can make sure that your child has an effective medication for this condition.

Different Kinds of ADHD Symptoms

One of the biggest reasons that finding the right medication for kids with ADHD is so hard is that this condition causes such a wide range of symptoms. Some children with ADHD have trouble sitting still, talk a lot and are generally hyperactive. Other children tend to be inattentive without being hyperactive. These children might sit still and daydream when they have trouble paying attention. The varying nature of these symptoms in different children makes it difficult to use general treatment guidelines when prescribing medication. A medication that works for a child with hyperactive symptoms might not be effective for treating ADHD in a child without hyperactivity.

Medication Side Effects

While ADHD medications can go a long way toward helping kids with ADHD, so that they can focus better, some cause undesirable side effects. In some cases, adjusting the dosage can help prevent these from occurring. When side effects continue, parents often find that their child needs to switch to a different medication. Some of the side effects that these medications can cause include a decreased appetite and sleep problems. Parents typically have to start out trying one medication and having dosages adjusted before changing to a different medication when children experience side effects. 

Different Types of ADHD Medications

ADHD medications include stimulants and non-stimulants, as well as medications for treating sleep problems, impulsive behavior, and hyperactive behavior. Stimulant medications, such as Adderall and Ritalin, are used to improve a child’s attention span while also reducing hyperactivity. These medications are available in short-acting and long-acting form. Non-stimulant medications, such as Strattera, are used for children who aren’t able to tolerate stimulant medications. Other medications, such as clonidine and guanfacine, are sometimes used for children who are not responding well to traditional stimulant medications for ADHD. With so many different medications available, finding the right one can involve going through a time-consuming trial and error method. This can lead to delays in effectively managing ADHD in children. 

Customized Medicine

Compounding pharmacies offer a solution for parents who are facing medication challenges when their child has ADHD. These pharmacies can customize medicine for kids so that they have a medication and dosage that is specifically designed to manage their particular symptoms. This can lead to a more efficient and less time-consuming way to manage ADHD so that children can begin enjoying the benefits of treating this condition. 

If you need ADHD medication for your child, please contact Arena District Pharmacy in the downtown Columbus area. Our compounding pharmacy can help you find the right medication in the dosage that works best for your child.