ADHD Treatment
ADHD Treatment
Psycostimulant compounds are the most widely used medications used for ADHD treatment. These medications do not work by
increasing stimulation of the teenager. They help the networks of nerve
cells in the brain, which enables them to better communicate with each
other. When administered psycostimulant medications, such as
methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Focalin), approximately
70-80 percent of children and teens responded positively.
Some
experience extraordinary benefits, while others experience helpful and
satisfactory results.
Normally, children and teenagers are monitored both
on and off the medication. These observations are collected from
parents, teachers, and coaches in order to tailor the appropriate
medical dosage for the individual’s needs (CHADD).
Research shows conclusively that untreated teenagers
with ADHD are at far greater risk for other problems and disorders than
are those who are treated with a combination of behavioral therapy and
medication (Davis, 38). There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. A
comprehensive evaluation of the teenager is necessary to rule out other
causes, and determine the presence of any co-existing conditions. A
careful history of the child and the child’s behaviors is needed, as
well as a clinical assessment of the youth’s social, academic, and
emotional functioning and development level (Davis, 38).
There is no cure for ADHD. Treatment manages and
controls symptoms and helps the teen build new life skills. For
treatment to be effective, it must be multimodal, which means that a
variety of interventions in the school and at home, as well as
medication and individual counseling will most likely be required. The
multimodal approach has shown great promise in research studies.
Teenagers who receive medication in combination with behavioral
treatment have shown significant improvement in their academic work,
better overall behavior, and better relationships with their family and
peers (Davis, 40).
“CHADD” The Disorder Named AD/HD. Jan. 2005. 23, Feb. 2005 http://www.chadd.org/fs/fsl.htm
Davis, Daniel L., PhD. Your Angry Child – A
Guide for Parents. New York: The Haworth Press,
2004.
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By:Charles Shinaver, Ph Posted: Sep 21 2009 04:51:46 PM