Treating ADHD

Treating ADHD
ADHD can't be cured, but it can be successfully managed. In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination of medication and behavior therapy. Any good treatment plan will require close follow-up and monitoring, and it's important for parents to actively participate in their child's treatment plan.

Medications
Several different types of medications may be used to treat ADHD:
Stimulants are the best-known treatments — they've been used for more than 50 years in the treatment of ADHD. Some require several doses per day, each lasting about 4 hours; some last up to 12 hours. Possible side effects include decreased appetite, stomachache, irritability, and insomnia. There's currently no evidence of long-term side effects.

Nonstimulants were approved for treating ADHD in 2003. These appear to have fewer side effects than stimulants and can last up to 24 hours.

Antidepressants are sometimes a treatment option; however, in 2004 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning that these drugs may lead to a rare increased risk of suicide in children and teens. If an antidepressant is recommended for your child, be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor.

Medications can affect kids differently, and a child may respond well to one but not another. When determining the correct treatment, the doctor might try various medications in various doses, especially if your child is being treated for ADHD along with another disorder.


Behavioral Therapy
Research has shown that medications used to help curb impulsive behavior and attention difficulties are more effective when combined with behavioral therapy.


Here are examples of behavioral therapy that may help a child with ADHD:

• Create a routine. Try to follow the same schedule every day, from wake-up time to bedtime. Post the schedule in a prominent place, so your child can see what's expected throughout the day and when it's time for homework, play, and chores.

• Get organized. Put schoolbags, clothing, and toys in the same place every day so your child will be less likely to lose them.

• Avoid distractions. Turn off the TV, radio, and computer games, especially when your child is doing homework.

• Limit choices. Offer a choice between two things so that your child isn't overwhelmed and overstimulated.

• Change your interactions with your child. Instead of long-winded explanations and cajoling, use clear, brief directions to remind your child of responsibilities.

• Use goals and rewards. Use a chart to list goals and track positive behaviors, then reward your child's efforts. Be sure the goals are realistic.

• Discipline effectively. Instead of yelling or spanking, use timeouts or removal of privileges as consequences for inappropriate behavior. Younger kids may simply need to be distracted or ignored until they display better behavior.

• Help your child discover a talent. All kids need to experience success to feel good about themselves. Finding out what your child does well such as sports, art, or music. This can boost social skills and self-esteem.