Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD Treatment

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has developed evidence-based guidelines for treating ADHD:

• Set specific, appropriate target goals to guide therapy.
• Medication and/or behavior therapy should be started.
• When treatment has not met the target goals, evaluate the original diagnosis, the possible presence of other conditions, how well the treatment plan has been implemented, and the use of all appropriate treatments.
• Systematic follow-up is important to regularly reassess target goals, results, and any adverse effects of medications. Information should be gathered from parents, teachers, and the child.

ADHD is a frustrating problem. A number of alternative remedies have become quite popular, including herbs and supplements, chiropractic manipulation, and dietary changes. While there is evidence suggesting the value of a healthy, varied diet, with plenty of fiber and other basic nutrients (the diet that would be best for most children), there is little or no solid evidence for many remedies that are marketed to parents. Adequate sleep has been proven to help ADHD symptoms.

Children who receive both behavioral treatment and medication often do the best. Medications should not be used just to make life easier for the parents or the school. There are now several different classes of ADHD medications that may be used alone or in combination. Other helpful techniques may include:

• Modifying the environment to limit distracting factors
• Providing one-on-one instruction with teacher