For decades, medications have been used to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Three of these medications are methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine or Dextrostat), and pemoline (Cylert). However, most prescription psychiatric drugs also carry far-reaching negative side effects and risks (see below).
Unfortunately, people think medication is all that’s needed. For lasting improvement, numerous clinicians believe that the most significant, long-lasting gains appear when medication is combined with behavioral therapy, emotional counseling, dietary control and practical support.
The Medication Debate
Ritalin and the other stimulants have sparked a great deal of controversy. The potential side effects should be carefully weighed against the benefits before prescribing the drugs. While on these medications, some children may lose weight, have less appetite, and temporarily grow more slowly. Others may have problems falling asleep. Some doctors believe that stimulants may also make the symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome worse. Some doctors say if they carefully watch the child’s height, weight, and overall development, the benefits of medication far outweigh the potential side effects. Side effects that do occur can often be handled by reducing the dosage. However, that is not necessarily true, and you should educate yourself on all aspects of the debate before making a decision.
A far safer approach is often found with natural (herbal or homeopathic) remedies, which should be considered as a first step ahead of prescription psychiatric drugs. When combined with strong dietary control, counseling as necessary and a healthy lifestyle, natural remedies have been show to be effective in helping to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD.
Another debate is whether Ritalin and other stimulant drugs are prescribed unnecessarily for too many children. Remember that many things, including anxiety, depression, allergies, seizures, or problems with the home or school environment can make children seem overactive, impulsive, or inattentive. Critics argue that many children who do not have a true attention disorder are medicated as a way to control their disruptive behaviors.
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