Psychostimulants

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is found in both children
and adults. Children with ADHD have difficulties at school because of
impulsivity and inattention. The underlying cause of ADHD is extremely
complex, and the ways in which drugs used to treat it work are equally complex.
The most successful treatments are with drugs that actually stimulate
the central nervous system. Drug therapy is most effective when combined
with behavioral treatments. The most commonly used psychostimulants are
methylphenidate and pemoline, but amphetamines are sometimes used as
well. Formerly, depressed patients were treated with amphetamines and similar
compounds; occasionally this use is still found. These stimulant drugs
do improve school performance; however, they may cause growth retardation
in both height and weight. They may also cause insomnia and nervousness.
Importantly, these drugs may be abused, leading ultimately to addiction,
paranoia, and severe depression during withdrawal.