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Although there is controversy
surrounding them, stimulants are still the most commonly prescribed
type of medication for children with ADD and ADHD. The Drug Enforcement
Agency says that stimulant drug production has increased 500 percent
since 1991, and over half of the prescriptions for them are written by
pediatricians. Stimulants are often effective in treating many of the
symptoms of ADD -- but are they the best ADD treatment for your child?
Many parents are concerned about the side effects stimulants can
produce and choose to investigate other options like behavioral therapy
and herbal supplements as well. When it comes to making a decision that
affects your child's health, having the facts is essential.
ADD stimulant medications work by
increasing the levels of the chemicals epinephrine and norepinephrine
in the brain, which helps the brain to transmit signals between nerves.
This improves a child's (or adult's) ability to pay attention for
extended periods of time. But these medications also come with a risk
of mild and serious side effects. Some of the most common side effects
include headaches, upset stomach and increased blood pressure, all of
which may diminish as the body adjusts after the first few weeks of
treatment. Other common side effects include decreased appetite (80% of
stimulant users report this), nervousness and sleeplessness. Research
has also shown that stimulants can stunt growth during treatment, but
have not been proven to affect final height. Less common but more
serious side effects include hallucinations and feelings of suspicion
or paranoia, Tourette's Syndrome, and suicidal thoughts.
Children on stimulants (Ritalin,
Adderall and Concerta are the best-known brands) should be watched
closely and their dosages should be evaluated regularly. These
medications are most effective when they are administered in the
correct dosage for each individual and when they are combined with
additional ADD treatments like behavioral therapy and practical and
emotional support. Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera, can also be
effective, but carry a risk of similar side effects.
In light of the risks that
prescription medications carry, many parents are interested in
exploring an herbal remedy for ADD. There is more than one herb that
has been shown to be an effective ADD or ADHD child treatment, and
there are a variety of natural remedies on the market that combine many
of them. Ginko Biloba, Green Oats, Brahmi, Gotu Kola and Panax Ginseng
are some of the best ingredients, and the positive effects of some of
them (like Ginko) can become permanent even after discontinuing use.
While stimulant medication is often
successful in treating ADD, it can sometimes cause its own set of
problems. Weigh the risks and the benefits carefully, and make the
decision that is right for your own child. Just as each child exhibits
symptoms of ADD differently, each child will react differently to
medication and treatment. Patience and thorough research should lead
you to a healthy solution for your child.
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by Tess Thompson
Tess Thompson is a Homeopathic
Practitioner, Reflexologist, Certified Aromatherapist, and Herbalist
who contributes regularly to Native Remedies
- where you can find All Natural Homeopathic and Herbal Remedies for
many health conditions including natural ADD
treatment and herbal
remedy for ADD.
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