Attention Deficit Disorder Treatment - Medications For ADD

Attention Deficit Disorder is a common problem not only in the US but in European countries as well. Studies estimate that about 3% to 5% of children in the United States alone may be suffering from this disorder. Scientists have not yet found the factors that could be linked to the occurrence of this disorder but they are currently making a study on genetics since most ADD patients come from a family which has a history of this disorder.

Attention Deficit Disorder is characterized by excessive activity or hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattentiveness, talking endlessly, interrupting others, squirming and fidgeting, difficulty to remain seated, and inability to focus on a certain task. ADD patients may also tend to not listen when spoken to, have temperamental outbursts, and may have difficulty following directions.

Treating Attention Deficit Disorder usually involve the use of stimulant medications. Over the years, stimulants have been clinically proven to be effective in treating this disorder. There are cases, though, that an ADD patient may not tolerate stimulant drugs. In these cases, doctors may opt to give the patient other forms of medications such as non-stimulants and antihypertensive drugs.

Some of the most common medications used in the treating ADD are Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, Wellbutrin, Dexedrine, Strattera, and Dextrostat. These drugs are the primary drugs that may be used in Attention Deficit Disorder treatment. When these do not work, doctors would usually find other alternative drugs.

It is still not clear how stimulant drugs work in ADD children. However, scientific studies are available to back their effectiveness in treating the disorder. They can lessen hyperactivity and impulsivity and are found to be effective in boosting focus in children.

Although side effects have been known to be associated with the use of these drugs, doctors still prescribe these medications as they can be very safe when used under a physician's guidance.

Many parents have had bad experiences related to the use of prescription drugs; therefore, they look for alternative methods in treating ADD. Now, aside from medications prescribed by doctors, parents now have the option to use other methods of treatment.

One of the most popular alternative methods in treating ADD in children is the use of homeopathic remedies. More and more parents are using this kind of alternative treatment because of the many benefits that homeopathic remedies can bring. Several studies made on this form of treatment have shown that these treatments bring about positive improvements in children.

However, unlike prescription medications, the results of homeopathic remedies on ADD patients may not be seen immediately. Long term use of the treatment is necessary before any improvements may be noticeable. Another downside is that not all ADD patients may also respond to this kind of medication.

If you are in doubt about the treatment used in your ADD child, it is better to always communicate your thoughts to your child's doctor. Together, you can make a better treatment plan for your child.

Jennifer Kaplan is a health enthusiast. She is especially interested on issues concerning ADD/ADHD and Attention Deficit Disorder treatment. Her interest on this subject has also led her to learn ways in treating Attention Deficit Disorder.