Amphetamines can be used to treat ADHD in children because they are stimulant medications that increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters, mainly dopamine and norepinephrine, in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, which are core symptoms of ADHD. By boosting dopamine and norepinephrine activity, amphetamines improve executive functioning and reduce the severity of these symptoms. Clinical trials have shown that amphetamines effectively improve attention, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, and enhance overall symptom control in children with ADHD compared to placebo. However, they also carry risks of side effects such as sleep problems, decreased appetite, and stomach pain, and their long-term effects require further study.
How Amphetamines Work in ADHD
- ADHD is thought to involve insufficient production or activity of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which leads to difficulties with attention and impulse control.
- Amphetamines promote the release and block the reuptake of these neurotransmitters, increasing their availability and improving neural signaling related to executive functions like focus and inhibition.
Evidence for Effectiveness
- Multiple randomized controlled trials involving children aged 3 to 17 years have shown that amphetamines significantly reduce the core symptoms of ADHD based on teacher, parent, and clinician ratings.
- Children receiving amphetamines have a higher proportion of symptom improvement compared to those on placebo.
Safety and Considerations
- Amphetamines may cause side effects such as sleep disturbances, appetite loss, and stomach pain.
- Long-term effects are less clear and require ongoing research, though some studies suggest continuous use may support brain development and reduce risks associated with ADHD in adulthood.
In summary, amphetamines are used to treat ADHD in children because they help correct neurotransmitter imbalances that underlie the disorder's symptoms, resulting in improved attention, reduced impulsivity, and better behavioral control.
