Medication Side Effects

It is important to systematically monitor for medication side effects such as the following:

• Appetite suppression is a common side effect of stimulant medications. Close monitoring of height, weight, and BMI are required while patients are on stimulant medication.
• Insomnia can be associated with ADHD, but it also can occur as a side effect with stimulant and atomoxetine medications. Routine monitoring of sleep habits and sleep difficulties is necessary when patients are on stimulant medication.
• Irritability can surface with some patients. If this symptom is occurring frequently at a particular time of day, this may be a side effect of medication or due to an environmental factor. More frequently, a rebound effect occurs when stimulant medication is wearing off. Determining the pattern of this symptom is important in understanding why irritability is occurring and how to treat it.
• Some patients experience headaches or stomachaches while on medication for ADHD. Knowing if these symptoms are present at baseline and gathering additional clinical information if these symptoms occur will help determine if medication adjustments need to be made.
• Nonstimulant medications that are alpha 2 agonists (extended-release guanfacine or clonidine) may have side effects of drowsiness or dizziness. Monitoring blood pressure and pulse is necessary for patients on stimulant and nonstimulant medications.
• Other, more rare side effects may occur, which can be detected with close face-to-face follow-up, as well as phone or electronic message follow-up with initiation, titration, and changes with medication.