Various drugs

Apart from Ritalin ®, which can probably be called the best known ADSADHS drug, there are other drugs with the same active ingredient (methylphenidate). As already mentioned, they are among the stimulants and are the drugs of first choice.The table is limited to essential medication of the ADS – therapy (stimulants). Since some drugs are not permitted in Germany, but are administered elsewhere, we limit ourselves to those drugs that are also approved and permitted to be administered in Germany.

In addition, it is possible that in other countries the possible applications vary. The table does not claim to be complete and corresponds to our state of knowledge. Possible deviations are possible.

The mentioned medications are exemplary and without recommendation character: Concerta® (methylphenidate) | psychoanaleptic, psychotropic drugs, stimulants | children from 6 years of age and adolescents with a clear diagnosis of ADHD Equasym® (methylphenidate) | psychoanaleptic, psychotropic drugs Stimulants | Children 6 years and older Medikinet® (methylphenidate) | Psychoanaleptic, psychotropic, stimulant | Children 6 years and older and adolescents with a definite diagnosis of ADHD Ritalin® (methylphenidate) | Psychoanaleptic, Psychotropic drugs, stimulants | children over 6 years of age and adolescents with a definite diagnosis of ADHD Ritalin SR® (methylphenidate) | psychoanaleptic, psychotropic drugs, stimulants | children over 6 years of age and adolescents with a definite diagnosis of ADHD Captagon® (fenetylline) | psychoanaleptic, psychotropic drugs, stimulants | childhood ADHD in Germany. Since 1. 7. 03 no longer on the market Tradon® (Pemolin) | sympathomimetic, psychostimulants | children from 6 years and adolescents with a clear diagnosis of ADHD only available as a raw substance in Germany | amphetamine sulfate (given in juice or in the form of tablets and manufactured in pharmacies) | amphetamine preparation | children from 6 years and adolescents with a clear diagnosis of ADHD

Side effects

In addition to the desired effects, drugs always have side effects that are expressed in different ways depending on the individual. A distinction must be made between symptom intensification and “real” side effects. As the name suggests, symptom intensification means an intensification of abnormalities that were already apparent before the drug therapy.

Such symptom aggravations do not constitute side effects in the true sense of the word. In the following you will find a list of typical side effects that can occur with varying frequency. The list does not claim to be complete: methylphenidate inhibits the appetite.

However, the appetite-suppressing effect diminishes within a few months. Methylphenidate can lead to insomnia, headaches, dry mouth, anxiety, dizziness or depression. Rare side effects are hallucinations, disorientation or severe mood swings.

Suicidal thoughts and even suicide attempts have been observed when taking methylphenidate. Oral intake of methylphenidate without liquid may cause nausea or burning in the esophagus, as well as abdominal pain and vomiting. This is because methylphenidate becomes slightly acidic when it dissolves in the mouth or stomach.

Other side effects of the preparation may include itching, increased sweating, dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), hives, scaly skin or hair loss. Those affected also report palpitations, heart stumbling, cardiac arrhythmia and changes in blood pressure. Even with an adjusted dose of methylphenidate, children and adolescents may experience growth retardation and reduced weight gain.

After discontinuing methylphenidate, this side effect usually returns to normal. In children and adolescents, inflammation of the nasopharynx, fever or cough may also occur. Since methylphenidate can cause dizziness, it can cause impairment when operating machinery or driving cars.

In general, driving motor vehicles while taking methylphenidate is permitted. Methylphenidate is not addictive if properly treated with medication. However, as a drug that has an effect on the psyche, it should not be discontinued suddenly, as this can lead to “withdrawal symptoms”.

Signs of this are hyperactivity, irritability and depression. Methylphenidate is very dangerous in case of a severe overdose. It leads to an overexcitation of the CNS.

Cramps, delirium up to coma are the consequences. Blood pressure crises and cardiac arrhythmia can occur. Rapid medical treatment is urgently required.Several studies and investigations have questioned whether the active ingredient methylphenidate – for example in the form of the drug Ritalin ® – can lead to an increased risk of addiction.

This does not appear to be the case even with long-term use. Some studies even certify a lower risk of addiction. Similarly, it does not appear to be proven at present that the intake – especially long-term intake – of methylphenidate increases the risk of contracting Parkinson’s disease (Parkinsson’s disease).

Reduced feeling of hunger
Tendency to whiny behavior and tics
Effects on the psyche
Gastrointestinal effects
Allergic skin reactions
Blood value changes
Skin changes
Cardiovascular changes
Growth Delays