Stimulants and Decreased Appetite: Problem Solving Ideas

Stimulants are very effective at treating ADHD, but there can also be some side effects. One common side effect is decreased appetite. If your child has this side effect, there are things you can do to help. Here are some ideas of what you can try:

• Give your child his/her medication after or during breakfast. This will help him/her be hungry for breakfast.
• Give your child a large healthy meal later in the evening when the medication is starting to wear off. This is called a "Fourth meal". Plan this so that it is offered far enough before bedtime so that sleep is not delayed.
• Have healthy food available throughout the day so your child can eat when he/she is hungry. This may require a note for snacks at school.
• Make sure no one pressures or teases your child for not eating lunch.

If weight loss continues for more than a few months and decreased appetite continues, ask your child's doctor if your child can take a break from the medication or take a lower dose on weekends.