Attention deficit disorder (ADD)
Alternative names:
A.D.D.; ADHD; attention deficit hyperactive disorder; childhood hyperkinesis; hyperactive
Treatment:
Many medication methods of treatment have been tried. Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is usually treated with a course of medications followed by therapy and appropriate school placement. The primary medications used to treat attention deficit disorder include: - Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) and other amphetamines such as Adderal may also be used in older children and adolescents
- Ritalin (methylphenidate)
- Cylert (magnesium pemoline)
- other classes of medications have been tried such as antidepressants (such as amitriptyline or fluoxetine), tranquilizers (such as thioridazine), alpha-adrenergic agonist (clonidine), and others but have met with little success and are not part of the general armamentarium.
- caffeine has been tried but with little success.
Therapy techniques include: - behavior modification
- parent counseling
- individual psychotherapy
Other helpful techniques may include - modifying the environment to limit distracting factors
- providing one-on-one instruction with teacher
Expectations (prognosis):
Studies now have shown that the problems of attention deficit disorder may persist into adulthood; however, adults are usually more capable of controlling behavior and masking difficulties. Careful attention to education, socialization, and understanding your expectations should allow the child to develop into a functional adult. Statistics show that there is an increased incidence in juvenile delinquency and adult encounters with the law among individuals who had ADHD as a child. Every effort must be made to manage symptoms and direct the childĘs energy to constructive and educational paths.
Complications:
- school failure
- school drop-out
- delinquency
- criminal behavior
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if you or your child's school personnel suspect the possibility of attention deficit disorder.
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