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Has Your Child Experienced Any Side Effects from ADHD Medication? 

PostedSeptember 2, 2025
UpdatedSeptember 2, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

When a child is prescribed ADHD medication, it is important to be aware of potential ADHD medication side effects. While these medications can be highly effective in managing symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, they can also cause unwanted reactions in some children. It is essential for parents to monitor their child’s response to the medication and report any changes to their healthcare provider. 

ADHD medication side effects can vary, with some of the most common reactions including decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches, or stomach aches. In some cases, kids may experience emotional changes such as increased irritability or mood swings. These medication reactions are typically temporary and may diminish over time, but it is important to consult with a doctor if they persist or worsen. 

Common Symptoms 

Decreased appetite 

One of the most common ADHD medication side effects, children may have trouble eating, which can lead to weight loss. 

Difficulty sleeping 

Some children may have trouble falling or staying asleep, particularly with stimulant medications. 

Emotional changes 

Medication reactions may include irritability or mood swings, which can affect a child’s behaviour. 

If your child experiences any ADHD medication side effects, it is important to discuss alternative treatments or dosage adjustments with your doctor to ensure the best outcome for their health and well-being. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Clinical interviews and History Taking.  

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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