Question

Is long-term medication for children with ADHD likely to cause side effects? This is a concern for many parents.

Answer

During the treatment of ADHD, parents commonly worry about the side effects of medication. Common side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, and loss of appetite, which may alleviate as treatment progresses. If intolerance occurs, consider discontinuing the medication. Research indicates that long-term use of these medications may affect sleep and appetite, potentially impacting growth in height and weight, but these side effects are typically limited. It is recommended to conduct relevant long-term medication trials and consider discontinuation promptly if any adverse effects are detected.