Which of the following is a common adverse effect associated with stimulant medications used to treat ADHD?

• A. Rapid heartbeat
• B. Insomnia
• C. Weight loss
• D. Nausea

Answer: (C)

Stimulant medications used for ADHD commonly suppress appetite, which leads to weight loss. This effect is frequently observed across patients and is a predictable, dose-related outcome of how these drugs work in the brain and body. While a rapid heartbeat and insomnia can also occur, their presence can vary more with dose, timing, and individual sensitivity, and nausea is less consistently seen. Because weight loss directly reflects the appetite-suppressing action of stimulants and is commonly reported, it stands out as the typical adverse effect among the options.