Finding ways to treat ADHA

By: Dawn Jefferies , Consumer Reports | WSLS
Published: August 31, 2010

Close to 4.5 children suffer with Attention Deficit Hyper-activity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD. Children with ADHD face a unique set of challenges. The main symptoms are short attention span, and disorganization, and there may also be hyperactivity and impulsivity.

To learn which treatments work best, Consumer Reports surveyed more than 900 parents whose children have ADHD. Eighty-four percent of those in the survey had tried medication and, of those, two-thirds said that it helped a lot.

But medication alone is not a cure-all. The survey found that those children who were treated with both drug and non-drug therapies had better results than those who used drugs alone.

Non-drug therapies include having children meet with a psychologist, getting accommodations in school, and keeping a consistent schedule.

Consumer Reports says if you're considering medication, be aware there can be side effects. They include weight loss, decreased appetite, sleep problems, irritability, and an upset stomach. Those problems are usually mild, and with the help of a doctor, they can be well managed.

Before children take an ADHD medication, Consumer Reports says it's important to have a health exam. Fifteen percent of those surveyed did not have a basic screening before being prescribed medication.

For more information on treating ADHD go to: http://www.consumerreports.org/health/conditions-and-treatments/adhd/patient-power-toolkit/adhd-treatment.htm.

Consumer Reports has no commercial relationship with any advertiser or sponsor appearing on this Web site.

Copyright © 2006-2010 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

Finding ways to treat ADHA

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