Child Adhd Treatment Without Medication

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood and can profoundly affect the academic achievement, well-being, and social interactions of children; the American Academy of Pediatrics first published clinical recommendations for the diagnosis and evaluation of ADHD in children in 2000; recommendations for treatment followed in 2001.

There is more than a 50 year history of use with stimulants, and their actions and side effects are well-known. In fact, until 2002, stimulants were the only FDA-approved treatment for ADHD. As proven in a groundbreaking clinical trial called the Multi-Modal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD (MTA study), stimulants are the most effective treatment for ADHD as long as doses are monitored and adjusted specifically for each child.

While behavioral interventions can be very helpful, medication therapy is almost always recommended for kids who are diagnosed with ADHD. Medication therapy (sometimes referred to as pharmacotherapy) includes more than simple medication management; patients and their families should feel that their doctor is really listening to them in order to best understand and manage their concerns (and not simply refilling prescriptions), even though your appointment time with the doctor may be limited.