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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Attention Deficit Disorder: Treatment & Monitoring

Attention Deficit Disorder

Alternate Names : ADD

Attention Deficit Disorder | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment for ADHD usually involves medicine along with one or more other strategies. The most common medicine for ADHD is a stimulant called methylphenidate. This medicine is known as Ritalin, Concerta, or Metadate. Other medicines used to treat ADHD include the following:

  • amphetamines, such as Adderall, Dexedrine, or Dextrostat
  • antidepressants, such as desipramine or bupropion
  • other stimulants, such as pemoline, or Cylert
  • medicines normally used to treat high blood pressure, such as clonidine
  • Medicines are often used together with other treatment strategies, such as:

  • cognitive behavioral therapy
  • emotional counseling
  • practical support for activities of daily living
  • psychotherapy
  • social skills training for the individual
  • stress management training
  • support groups
  • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Side effects from medicine can include the following:

  • headache
  • involuntary muscle movements
  • loss of appetite
  • mood changes as medicine wears off
  • sleep disorders
  • weight management problems
  • A person who is receiving any form of therapy may show an initial increase in negative behavior. This may last until new behaviors become routine.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    Treatment and monitoring of ADD and ADHD are lifelong.

    How is the condition monitored?

    Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.


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    Attention Deficit Disorder: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Attention Deficit Disorder: Attribution

    Author: Michael Johnson, MD
    Reviewer: Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
    Date Reviewed: 09/07/01









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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006