ADHD Medications: Side Effects & How to Manage Them

For many people with ADHD, starting medication is life-changing. Tasks that once felt impossible—finishing projects, staying on top of responsibilities, or managing emotions—become manageable. But like all medications, ADHD treatments can come with side effects.

If you’ve started or are considering ADHD medication, it’s important to know what to expect, how to manage side effects, and when to talk to your provider. The goal is simple: maximize the benefits while minimizing the downsides.

The Most Common Side Effects

1. Appetite Changes

One of the most frequent side effects—especially with stimulants—is decreased appetite. Many people find they simply don’t feel hungry during the day.

Why does this happen?
Stimulants increase dopamine and norepinephrine, which not only help with focus but also suppress appetite.

What can you do?

• Eat a nutritious breakfast before taking your medication.
• Schedule meals and snacks—even if you’re not hungry—so you don’t miss essential calories.
• Talk to your provider about shorter-acting medications or adjusting dosing times if appetite suppression is severe.

2. Trouble Sleeping

Difficulty falling or staying asleep can happen if medication is taken too late in the day or if your system is sensitive to stimulants.

Tips for better sleep:

• Take your medication early in the morning.
• Create a wind-down routine: dim lights, avoid screens an hour before bed, and keep your sleep schedule consistent.
• Discuss with your doctor whether a different formulation or non-stimulant might help.

3. Mood Changes

Some people notice irritability, anxiety, or emotional “ups and downs.” Others describe a “crash” when the medication wears off.

How to manage it:

• Keep a symptom journal: Track when mood changes occur (midday? evening?).
• Avoid caffeine and energy drinks, which can make mood swings worse.
• Share your observations with your provider—sometimes adjusting dosage or switching medications can solve the issue.

4. Headaches & Stomach Upset

Mild headaches or nausea can occur, especially when starting a new medication.

Quick fixes:

• Take medication with food or a snack.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day.
• If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, let your provider know—a different dose or type of medication may help.

5. Rare but Important Side Effects

While very uncommon, stimulants can raise heart rate or blood pressure. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or a racing heart, call 911 immediately.

What About Non-Stimulants?

Non-stimulant medications (like Strattera, Intuniv, or Kapvay) often come with different side effects:

• Fatigue or drowsiness (especially at first).
• Low blood pressure or dizziness when standing up quickly.
• Mild nausea or stomach upset.

The upside? Non-stimulants usually don’t cause appetite loss or insomnia and may be a better option for people sensitive to stimulants or with certain medical conditions.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Most side effects improve as your body adjusts. But you should call your provider if:

• Side effects are severe or don’t go away after a few weeks.
• You notice major mood changes (depression, intense irritability).
• You experience chest discomfort, rapid heartbeat, or fainting.

Your provider may adjust your dosage, switch you to a different medication, or add strategies to reduce side effects.

Why You Shouldn’t “Push Through”

Too often, people stay silent about side effects because they don’t want to “bother” their doctor—or they fear losing their prescription. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to suffer to benefit from treatment.

Your provider’s goal is to find a balance: a medication that improves your ADHD symptoms without making you feel worse in other ways. This often takes some trial and error—but it’s worth it.

The Takeaway

ADHD medications can be life-changing, but side effects are real. The good news? Most can be managed with simple strategies like adjusting when you take your dose, eating balanced meals, improving sleep habits, or tweaking the prescription.

Don’t stop medication suddenly or struggle in silence. Keep the conversation open with your provider. Together, you can create a plan that works for your brain and your body.