Are you losing sleep over your child’s sleep troubles? You’re not alone! Studies show that up to 76% of kids have trouble sleeping occasionally. But worry not, we’ve got your back! Let’s dive into the world of sleep medication for ADHD kids and explore how it can help both you and your little one catch those much-needed Zzzs.
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The Sleep Struggle Is Real
For many parents, bedtime can feel like an uphill battle. Kids with thinking and learning differences often have a hard getting to sleep or staying asleep. Their unique brain wiring affects their body clock and melatonin production – a hormone that helps us sleep.
Trying healthy bedtime routines like dimming lights or reading a story together might help but may not always work. That’s where considering sleep medication for ADHD comes in handy.
A Soothing Solution – Sleep Medication Options
When it comes to finding the right sleep aid for your child, there are several options available:
- Melatonin supplements – Often considered a first-line treatment due to their natural origin.
- Prescription medications – Used when melatonin doesn’t work or if other factors cause insomnia.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines – May provide short-term relief but use caution there are potential side effects.
Remember that each child is different; what works wonders for one might not suit another! Let’s delve deeper into these options so you can make an informed decision about which route might work best for your family.
Read more: Best sleep app for kids
Melatonin
Melatonin supplements are popular because they mimic our body’s naturally produced hormone that helps regulate our internal clock (our circadian rhythm). This means it can help your child fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer.
These supplements come in various forms, like tablets, gummies, or even liquid drops. Dosages typically range from 0.5mg-6mg, but it’s crucial to talk with your child’s healthcare provider before starting any melatonin regimen.
Some benefits of using melatonin include the following:
- Non-habit forming: Unlike some prescription sleep medications, melatonin doesn’t cause dependence.
- Minimal side effects: Most kids experience few, if any, side effects when taking melatonin.
- Cost-effective: Melatonin is often more affordable than prescription sleep medication for ADHD kids.
However, keep in mind that although melatonin is a popular choice among parents and professionals alike, its effectiveness may vary depending on the individual child.
Read More: Treating ADHD Without Medication
The Prescription Path
If melatonin doesn’t cut it or if other factors contribute to insomnia, like anxiety or co-existing conditions, your child’s doctor may recommend prescription sleep medication for ADHD kids. Some common options include:
- Clonidine – Originally developed as a blood pressure medication but also found effective in managing ADHD-related sleep issues.
- Guanfacine – Another blood pressure medicine that can help improve sleep quality.
- Trazodone – An antidepressant often prescribed off-label for insomnia treatment.
Always follow the prescribed dosage and schedule provided by your child’s healthcare professional to ensure the safe use of these medications.
Let’s take a closer look at each option:
Clonidine – Calming Effects
Clonidine works by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain, which leads to reduced nerve signals causing relaxation and drowsiness – perfect ingredients for a good night’s rest! This medication is usually taken as a pill or patch and can be especially helpful for kids with ADHD who struggle to wind down at night.
Guanfacine – A Gentle Approach
Similar to clonidine, guanfacine also targets alpha-2 adrenergic receptors but has a slightly different mechanism of action. It’s considered gentler than clonidine and may cause fewer side effects, making it an appealing option for parents seeking sleep medication for ADHD kids.
Trazodone – Off-label Use
Trazodone is an antidepressant that has sedative properties, which makes it useful in treating insomnia. While not specifically approved for this purpose, many doctors prescribe it off-label due to its effectiveness in promoting sleep. The dosage used for sleep issues is typically lower than what’s prescribed for depression treatment.
While prescription medications can be quite effective, they may come with some side effects, such as drowsiness during the day or potential interactions with other medications your child might be taking. Always discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication regimen.
A Word of Caution on OTC Antihistamines
While over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl might seem like an easy fix, but use caution as they may cause drowsiness the following day or lead to dependence if used long-term. Moreover, these medications are not specifically designed to treat insomnia. Discuss their use with your child’s doctor before administration.
Some common concerns regarding OTC antihistamines include the following:
- Prolonged drowsiness – Kids might feel groggy the next day after using them.
- Tolerance build-up – Over time, only higher doses may achieve the same effect.
- Potential interactions – These drugs could interact negatively with other medications your child is taking.
Goally | Apps To Structure Your Kiddo’s Routine
Does your child struggle with getting ready for bed? Goally’s skill building tablet for kids has routines that break down large tasks into small, achievable steps. It helps kids to adjust to a bed time routine and look forward to it!
Create custom routines with your own videos & pictures for every step. The steps come in small, bite-sized pieces to help your child learn the little fundamentals (like putting the toothpaste on their toothbrush!) to achieve bigger goals. And that’s just the beginning. Watch a tour of our apps below to learn how Goally can set your child up for success!
Try Goally’s suite of therapy apps on any device you have at home for just $15. We also have a dedicated tablet (which ONLY has Goally on it) for $149.
Closing Thoughts
Finding the right sleep solution for kids with thinking and learning differences can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but don’t lose hope! With patience and guidance from medical professionals, you’ll figure out which sleep medication for ADHD works best – ensuring restful nights and brighter days ahead. Remember that open communication with your child’s healthcare provider is key in finding the perfect balance between bedtime routines and medication options. Sweet dreams!
FAQs About Sleep Medication For ADHD Kids
Should I consult a doctor before administering sleep medication to my child with ADHD? Absolutely. Always discuss with your child's doctor before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter sleep aids.
Can lifestyle changes help improve sleep in kids with ADHD? Yes, lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity, limited screen time before bed, and a balanced diet can significantly improve sleep quality in children with ADHD.
Are there any side effects of sleep medication for ADHD? Side effects can vary depending on the medication. They may include drowsiness the following day, dependence with long-term use, and some may not specifically address insomnia related to ADHD.
Are there alternatives to medication for managing sleep problems in kids with ADHD? Yes, alternatives include behavioral strategies like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, using visual schedules, emotional regulation apps, and rewards for good sleep behavior.
Can over-the-counter antihistamines be used as sleep medication for ADHD? Yes, over-the-counter antihistamines, like Benadryl, can be used, but they aren't specifically designed to treat insomnia and may cause drowsiness the next day or lead to dependence with long-term use.
This post was originally published on April 11, 2023. It was updated on June 5, 2023.
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