Clonidine acts on the central nervous system and is especially helpful if the symptoms are primarily hyperactivity, aggression, or if tics are present. It is available as a pill or as a patch. All of the stimulants have the potential to cause insomnia, decreased appetite, stomach ache, headache, and jitteriness. Often, a slight decrease in dose can eliminate the side effects. Giving the medication after meals can reduce the effects of decreased appetite.
Growth appears to be affected only as a result of decreased appetite.
Your physician will monitor the child's growth while on the medication. The antidepressants have different side effects depending on their class. Minor side effects include dry mouth, blurry vision, and sexual dysfunction. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and desipramine, can cause blurry vision, dry mouth, constipation, and difficulty voiding. An EKG is often performed before starting treatment with a tricyclic antidepressant.