Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a disorder characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity, impulsivity, disorganization and forgetfulness. The book "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" notes that ADHD may begin as early as age 3. Diagnosis, however, usually occurs when the child reaches school age, around 6 or 7, and starts to have trouble in school. Treatment is based upon the severity of the child's symptoms.
Stimulant Drugs
Methylphenidate is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. Some of the widely known brand names are Ritalin, Methylin, Metadate and Concerta. Other stimulant drugs approved for children with ADHD include amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and dexmethylphenidate. "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" explains that stimulants are the preferred therapy for ADHD in children and are the most effective drug treatment options, with efficacy ranging from 70 to 96 percent. The stimulants enhance the release of two chemicals in the brain, dopamine and norepinephrine, which leads to the improvement of symptoms.
Strattera
Strattera, or atomoxetine, is classified as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It works by increasing the availability of norepinephrine in the brain. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that Strattera is a nonstimulant, non-addicting medication with similar efficacy to the stimulants. Strattera is the preferred drug when adverse reactions occur with the stimulants or when they are not effective in treating symptoms.
Behavior Modification
"Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" notes that stimulants do not improve social and academic functioning reliably, and behavior modification therapy should be provided in accordance to the needs of the child. Behavior modification includes rewarding the child when he exhibits the desired behaviors and punishing him appropriately when he exhibits unwanted behavior. This will create an association between behavior and outcome and lead to desired actions from the child. MayoClinic.com notes that family therapy may help everyone in the family deal with the frustration or stress that can come from having a child or sibling with ADHD. Additionally, the parents may opt for parenting skills training to help them better understand and deal with their child's behavior.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is also important for managing ADHD symptoms. Exercising improves memory, increases motivation, elevates mood, fights stress and allows for better learning. Parents should pick activities that are enjoyable, such as dancing, martial arts or team sports. Furthermore, this creates a sense of discipline and improves the child's self-esteem, explains MayoClinic.com.
Diet
Parents should schedule regular meals and snacks for the child to create good eating habits. The child's diet should include enough vitamins and minerals. A multivitamin can help with the daily recommended intake. Parents may also try eliminating foods from the child's diet that are thought to lead to hyperactivity, such as sugar and caffeine. Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for proper brain function and may improve mental focus. Salmon, tuna and sardines are examples of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. According to MayoClinic.com, however, research is still being done to determine if these fatty acids improve ADHD symptoms. In fact, the website reports that the link between diet and the improvement of ADHD symptoms is debatable.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Treatment
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro et al.; 2008
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children
