ADHD Frequently Asked Questions
What is ADHD? Learning about ADHD can be an overwhelming process. That's why we've compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about ADHD in children as well as in adults.
Click each question to reveal the answer.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a disorder characterized by the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsivity, or a combination of all 3 that are more frequent and severe than is typically seen in one's peers. The behaviors are inconsistent with the individual's developmental level. Only a trained health care provider can diagnose ADHD.
How do I start thinking about getting help?
Always talk to your doctor first. Check out your local resources to meet other parents and professionals with ADHD expertise. Your child's school, your human resources department at work, and neighborhood clinics may also have lists of resources for managing or treating ADHD.
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), and other ADHD support organizations also have Web site registries where you can speak with others about your experiences.
Why is my doctor changing the dosage of my child's medicine?
Your doctor may adjust the dosage of your child's medication. It may require time to determine which dose of medication is right for your child. Your child should take his/her medication exactly as prescribed.
There are so many contradictory claims about ADHD. How can I tell what's real?
Talk to a qualified health care professional for questions and information about treating ADHD and about ADHD medications.
When I go to a health care professional, I'm in and out so fast I forget to ask my questions, even when I write them down ahead of time! How can I make sure I get what my child needs?
Hand those written questions to the health care professional as soon as he/she enters the room! If you’ve already left the office, pick up the phone and call back. Don’t let a moment of embarrassment keep you from getting the important information you need for your child.
What are the symptoms of ADHD in adults?
The core symptoms of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD may appear differently in adults than in children. Only a trained health care provider can diagnose ADHD. Read more about ADHD in adults
Indication
Vyvanse is a prescription medicine for the treatment of ADHD in children ages 6 to 17 and adults. Vyvanse should be used as part of a total treatment program that may include counseling or other therapies.
Important Safety Information
Vyvanse is a federally controlled substance (CII) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep in safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away Vyvanse may harm others, and is illegal. Vyvanse is a stimulant. Misuse of stimulants may cause sudden death and serious heart problems.
- Vyvanse should not be taken by patients who have:
Heart disease or hardening of the arteries, moderate to severe high blood pressure, overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), glaucoma, agitated states, a history of drug abuse, taken an anti-depression medicine called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the last 14 days, or sensitivity to, are allergic to, or had a reaction to other stimulant medicines.
- Vyvanse is a stimulant medicine. The following have been reported with use of stimulant medicines.
Heart-related problems: sudden death in patients who have heart problems or heart defects stroke and heart attack in adults increased blood pressure and heart rate Tell your doctor if you or your child have any heart problems, heart defects, high blood pressure, or a family history of these problems. Call your doctor right away if you or your child have any signs of heart problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting while taking Vyvanse.
Mental (Psychiatric) problems: All Patients new or worse behavior and thought problems new or worse bipolar illness new or worse aggressive behavior or hostility Children and Teenagers new psychotic symptoms (such as hearing voices, believing things that are not true, are suspicious) or new manic symptoms Tell your doctor about any mental problems you or your child have, or about a family history of suicide, bipolar illness, or depression. Call your doctor right away if you or your child have any new or worsening mental symptoms or problems while taking Vyvanse, especially seeing or hearing things that are not real, believing things that are not real, or are suspicious.
- Serious side effects have been reported with use of stimulant medicines such as Vyvanse, including:
- seizures, mainly in patients with a history of seizures
- eyesight changes or blurred vision
- motion and verbal tics. Patients with tics or Tourette's syndrome may experience a worsening of symptoms while taking Vyvanse.
- slowing of growth. Your child should have his or her height and weight checked often while taking Vyvanse. The doctor may stop treatment if a problem is found during these check-ups.
- The most common side effects reported in studies of Vyvanse were:
- upper belly pain
- nausea
- dry mouth
- dizziness
- weight loss
- trouble sleeping
- irritability
- decreased appetite
- vomiting
This is not a complete summary of safety information. For additional safety information, please click here for Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Warning about Potential for Abuse, and discuss with your doctor.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA.
Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
