Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD

ADHD is a biological disorder where there is more disagreement than agreement. It has even gone through a lot of incarnations from "Hyper-kinesis" to its present form, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Much of the information is gained from experiences and stories narrated by ADHD adults or parents of ADHD children. Let's see what kind of questions are generally asked about ADHD.

1. What is ADHD? What causes it?

Ans: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a biological mental disorder found in both adults and children who exhibit problems in four main areas of their lives: Inattention, Hyperactivity, Boredom. The root cause of ADHD is under debate. But it is commonly maintained that ADHD can be due to the brain structure and functioning and some genetic factors. Studies show that if a parent or a relative carries the ADHD gene, the child stands a 70% chance of getting ADHD.

2. How do I know if my child has ADHD?

In reality, the symptoms of ADHD vary from one individual to another. Children in common are seen to be distracted and hyperactive. But you should observe carefully if he or she

a) Is very easily distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds.

b) Does not listen to what is being said.

c) Cannot follow instructions.

d) Fidgets or squirms excessively.

e) Cannot remain seated for a while.

f) Does not pay attention for a long duration.

g) Interrupts the activities or talks often.

h) Jumps from one activity to another.

i) Often loses things.

j) Often talks excessively.

i) Is making careless mistakes often without paying attention to detail.

3. How can I confirm it?

A little inattentiveness or hyperactivity is common in children and in some adults. You don't have to worry or panic if your child or an elderly family member is being too talkative, forgetful or impulsive as in ADHD. The diagnosis is mainly based on the degree at which these symptoms show up and how inappropriate they are for the person's age. They have to be excessive, long-term, and pervasive in order to be ADHD.

4. Will my child outgrow ADHD?

ADHD has no ultimate cure and it grows with the individual. By developing their strengths (high-energy) and by using medication when needed ADHD individuals can lead a better life.

5. How can I correct the causes?

Nothing is known about how to prevent ADHD. It is believed that "brain foods" can reduce the chances of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Your brain should get enough nutrients and blood circulation for the proper functioning of all its parts. In addition, healthy habits during pregnancy, good parenting skills and helping your child's attention skills- all can help with his learning disabilities.

6. What are the medications given for ADHD children?

Unlike the earlier days, now there are a lot choices on ADHD medications. The first line treatments happen to be Stimulants whereas antidepressants are administered if stimulants don't work. Vyvanse, Adderall XR and Concerta are some of the Long-acting stimulants (up to 12 hrs) while Short/Intermediate acting stimulants are Ritalin (Methylphenidate HCl), Ritalin SR, Methylin Chewable Tablet and Oral Solution, Metadate ER, Methylin ER and the like. Strattera is a non-stimulant given to children to help with their anxiety.

7. Do the ADHD stimulants have any side-effects?

Some people may find decreased appetite, headaches, stomachaches, difficulty in falling sleep, jitters, and social withdrawal as side effects. But these can be handled by lowering the dosage levels.

Puneet writes a blog about ADHD and helps ADHD sufferers to find new treatments in naturopathy and alternative medicine. If you are looking for a well-researched herbal remedy for ADHD, you may read more.

Children with autism frequently receive psychotropic medications

ScienceDaily (May 2, 2010) ? Behavioral interventions typically are the first line of treatment to manage unwanted behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). If behaviors do not improve, medications frequently are added to the mix.

Research conducted by Autism Speaks' Autism Treatment Network (ATN) shows that use of psychotropic medications is common among children with ASD, with 27 percent of those enrolled in the network registry receiving at least one medication to manage their behavior. The most common reasons for medication use were hyperactivity, repetitive behaviors, irritability and attentional concerns.

Results of the study, and three others conducted by the ATN, was presented May 2 at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) annual meeting in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

An estimated one in 110 U.S. children has autism, a group of complex developmental brain disorders that affect behavior, social skills and communication.

Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only two medications to treat certain symptoms seen in ASD, many other medications are used to treat a variety of symptoms exhibited by these children.

ATN researchers sought to identify which medicines are prescribed for children on the autism spectrum and how frequently they are used. The ATN, which includes 14 treatment and research centers in the United States and Canada, enrolls patients ages 2-18 years with a diagnosis of autism, Asperger's syndrome or pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).

Medication data were available for 415 children in the registry. Results showed that 112 (27%) were receiving at least one psychotropic medication for their behavior. Of these 112 children, 46% were taking two or more medications.

In addition, medication use was more common in older children: 60 percent of youths ages 11 and older took at least one medication compared to 44 percent of children ages 6-10 years, 11 percent of those ages 3-5 and 4 percent of children younger than 3.

The most common medications prescribed were stimulants, which are used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Symptoms of ADHD are among the most common problem behaviors reported by parents of children on the autism spectrum.

Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, also was prescribed frequently. The FDA has approved risperidone for the treatment of irritability, including aggression, temper tantrums, self-injurious behavior and quickly changing moods associated with ASD.

"Additional research to better define which children with ASD and to identify which specific symptoms respond best to which medication would improve treatment decisions for this population," said Daniel Coury, MD, medical director of the ATN and professor of pediatrics and psychiatry at The Ohio State University.

Autism Speaks' Autism Treatment Network (ATN) is the first network of hospitals and physicians dedicated to developing a model of comprehensive medical care for children and adolescents with autism. The ATN offers families care from doctors highly experienced in helping individuals with autism and providing treatment for associated conditions such as gastrointestinal and sleep disorders, while disseminating best practices to the greater medical community.

Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Story Source:

The above story is reprinted (with editorial adaptations by ScienceDaily staff) from materials provided by American Academy of Pediatrics, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.

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