ADD Medications

There are a few medications available to treat ADD, ADHD or Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. However, most of them are just extended release or variations to two main medications: Ritalin (Methylphenidate) and Adderall (composed of mixed amphetamine salts).

Both of these medications are stimulants. The medications act very similar. They also have a similar effect on the brain as cocaine does.

Other medications available to treat ADD and ADHD are usually extended release versions of these medications.

There are side effects to both medications. Although, the side effects will differ depending on who is taking the medication.

The side effects to both medications are very similar as well. Side effects include sudden death, stroke and heart attacks. Also both medications affect the growth rate of children, over time. There are other possible side effects as well, that are still being studied. Both of the medications have a high abuse potential because of the fact that their effect on the brain is so similar to stimulant drugs like cocaine.

ADD medication does not cure ADD or ADHD. What it does it temporarily mask or cover the attention problems.

Many children experience extreme mood swings when coming off the medication at the end of the day. They can be very irritable and tired after being on a stimulant all day.

There are many natural ways to improve ADD and ADHD issues. Here are some possible ways to heal ADD without the use of medications:

Diet Changes (eliminate certain foods)

Exercise

Music Therapy

Neurofeedback or Biofeedback

New Teaching Techniques

Try many different natural techniques to treat ADD for yourself or your child. If you are going to find any long term results, it will not be with the medication. In fact, in some cases the medication can actually make the ADD problems themselves, worse.