Stimulant Medications

Some children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder take stimulant medications.

Nutrition-related side effects can include:

• temporarily depressed appetite and decreased intake
• weight loss or slow weight gain
• slow growth in stature

Effects of stimulant medications on growth have been minimized when children take a “vacation” from the medication (e.g., during summer months). Offering meals and snacks before the medication is administered can also be helpful. With the newer extended release versions of these medications, there is a smaller, but persistent impact on appetite, but varies with individual.