Children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a new treatment option.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the prescription drug Vyvanse for treatment of the disorder that affects an estimated 2 million children.

The manufacturer says Vyvanse, also known as lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, absorbs into the body better and is harder to misuse than older stimulants used in ADHD treatment.

Clinical studies conducted by collaborative manufacturers Shire PLC and New River Pharmaceuticals, Inc., found a single dosage of Vyvanse reduced ADHD symptoms from morning into the early evening hours.

“The parents of the children we had using Vyvanse during the clinical trials really liked the way they responded,” says Dr. Ann Childress, a Las Vegas psychiatrist who participated in yearlong clinical trials for the drug.

“Parents throughout the trial were asking when it would be available, so I take that as a good sign.” Vyvanse should be available later this year. [source: Your Health]