![]() Viloxazine, also known as Qelbree, is a type of medication used to treat ADHD. ![]() About 15% of people in North America have inherently reduced CYP3A4 activity and need a lower guanfacine dose to reduce the incidence of side effects. Because it reduces blood pressure, it can cause fainting, sleepiness, headache, and other side effects. Because of this, it should be used with caution with other drugs such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and heart medications. Guanfacine is cleared by the CYP3A4 enzyme, which is involved in metabolizing over half of all medications. Guanfacine (Tenex) was originally approved by the FDA to treat hypertension, and later in 2010 for ADHD treatment in children. ![]() Almost 50% of people in Canada have reduced or absent CYP2B6 activity and may not benefit from the average bupropion dose. Bupropion is a pro-drug that is activated by the CYP2B6 enzyme. It is also prescribed for children and adolescents in some instances. Ultrarapid metabolizers are less likely to respond at the standard dose.īupropion (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL) is recommended as a first-line option in adult patients with ADHD and comorbid major depressive episodes by the Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Task Force. Poor CYP2D6 metabolizers require a lower dose. Over 25% of children are Poor or Ultrarapid metabolizers. Pharmacogenetic tests can give your child’s physician insights into the anticipated dose range. Fine-tuning the atomoxetine dose can take significant time. Other MedicationsĪtomoxetine (Strattera) is another drug metabolized by the CYP2D6 enzyme. Unfortunately, to date, there are no tests to assess its function reliably. Methylphenidate use also carries similar risks, but the CES1A1 enzyme metabolizes this medication. Contact the doctor immediately if your child has worsening behaviour, sees or hears things that aren’t real, experiences shortness of breath, or too-rapid heartbeat. Stimulant medications may also cause increased blood pressure and heart rate. However, they can take lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), which is independent of CYP2D6 metabolism.Īmphetamines carry a higher risk for agitation and psychotic or manic symptoms in teens. Children and adults who are Poor or Ultrarapid metabolizers should avoid amphetamine. Amphetamines, when concurrently used with antidepressants, can lead to dangerously high serotonin levels (serotonin syndrome). Inherently reduced amphetamine clearance can lead to drug-induced side effects. Pharmacogenetic testing assesses drug metabolism in the liver and can reduce the time needed to find appropriate ADHD medication and the correct dose.Īmphetamine, as well as dextroamphetamine, is cleared out of circulation by the CYP2D6 liver enzyme. The right medication and dose vary from child to child and depend on factors such as weight and inherited liver metabolism. Methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin) and dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)īoth amphetamines and methylphenidates are available in short-acting and long-acting forms. Psychostimulants such as amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD:Īmphetamines, dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), dextroamphetamine-amphetamine (Adderall, Mydayis), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). What are the types of ADHD medications for children? Stimulants In this review, we will describe the types of drugs prescribed for ADHD and how pharmacogenetic testing can help to optimize treatment and reduce the health risks of ADHD medications. It often takes a period of trial and error to find a prescription that fits. There is also no surefire medication that works for each child. So the question is: How safe are ADHD medications for children?ĭepending on the drug and dose taken, children with ADHD have an increased risk of sleep issues, a reduced appetite that may lead to low body weight or stunted growth, impacted blood pressure and heart rate, and, more rarely, psychosis. Although ADHD medication seems to be an easy solution to a child’s behavioural problems, parents should be aware of the health risks posed by commonly used ADHD drugs. Often, medication can help children (and adults) diagnosed with ADHD improve focus and memory and inhibit impulsive behaviours. When parents see their child continually struggling to concentrate and complete homework on time, they may seek to confirm ADHD diagnosis and treatment.
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