Both attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affect the brain, causing abnormalities in focusing on things, which include schoolwork, social interactions, and everyday activities, such as brushing teeth and getting dressed.

The significant difference between these two disorders is that ADHD unlike ADD is associated with hyperactivity disorder. Children affected by ADD are not expected to be hyperactive. ADHD or ADD affects people of any age group, although the symptoms are more severe in the case of adults.

Treatment for ADHD/ADD:

There is no specific set of treatment for ADHD or ADD; still, through developments in the medical fields, various FDA approved ADD ADHD medications are introduced one by one to eliminate the symptoms of the disorder. Inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness are some of the most common symptoms of the disease. The various ADD ADHD medications available now for the treatment of ADD or ADHD fall under two major categories, stimulants and non-stimulants.

The stimulant medications include-

• Amphetamines: These are used to treat ADHD and are available as immediate release, which is released immediately into the body, and as extended release, which is released slowly into the body. Brand names of these drugs include Adderal XR, Dexedrine, Dyanavel XR, etc.
• Methamphetamine: This drug is related to ephedrine and amphetamine. This type of drug works on the central nervous system of the body.
• Methylphenidate: This drug works by helping the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It also comes in both immediate release and extended release forms. The brand names of this drug are Aptensio XR, Metadate ER, Concerta, Daytrana, Ritalin, etc.

The non-stimulant ADD ADHD medications include:

• Atomoxetine:  This drug lets norepinephrine work for longer duration in the brain. As the drug remains in action for a longer period of time, the patient is advised to take it once a day.
• Clonidine: This drug is used to eliminate hyperactivity, distractibility, and impulsiveness in people with ADHD.
• Guanfacine: This drug is usually prescribed for high blood pressure in adults. It helps to treat symptoms of aggression and hyperactivity. Although it is available as a generic drug, only the time release version is approved for use in children.

ADD ADHD medications can help reduce most of the symptoms through extended use. However, the patients may experience some side effects while on stimulant drugs. Also, efficient management of ADD ADHD can be done with a combination of drugs and therapy treatment.