Mental Health: A Report by the Surgeon General

Common stimulant side effects include insomnia, decreased appetite, stomach aches, headaches, and jitteriness. Some children may develop tics, but a recent study suggests that they disappear with continued treatment (Gadow et al., 1995). Rebound activation (i.e., a sudden increase in attention deficit and hyperactivity) has been noted anecdotally after the child’s last dose of medication wears off (Johnston et al., 1988). Most of the side effects are mild, recede over time, and respond to dose changes. Children rarely experience cognitive impairment, which, if it does occur, can be resolved with reduction or cessation of the drug (Cantwell, 1996). A few cases of psychosis have been reported. Pemoline has been associated with hepatotoxicity, so monitoring of liver function is necessary. Two studies have shown no long-term effects of stimulants on later height or weight (Klein & Mannuzza, 1988; Vincent et al., 1990). Nonetheless, regular precautionary monitoring of weight and height for children on stimulants is recommended.

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