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ADD Treatment for Kids With Down Syndrome

Although more difficult to diagnose, some children with Down syndrome also have Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Treatments for ADD in children with Down syndrome must take into consideration the developmental and speech delays common with the disorder, according to Down Syndrome Online.

  1. Types of Medication

    • Prescription medications used to treat ADD in children with Down syndrome include Methylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine. Of the three, Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed treatment.

    Time Frame

    • Methylphenidate begins to relieve the hyperactivity and restlessness of children with ADD and Down syndrome within 30 minutes and lasts for up to four hours.

    Risks

    • Like all children, Methylphenidate has the potential to cause decreased appetite, weight loss, growth delays and headaches. Because Down syndrome often results in growth delays on its own, doctors must pay careful attention to the potential for growth being more stunted by Methylphenidate, according to University of Iowa Children's Hospital.

    Features

    • Some parents prefer to utilize behavioral management therapy as an alternative to medicine to help children with Down syndrome and ADD, using praise, visual prompts and timetables. This technique is often beneficial as it is used as therapy for other problems associated with Down syndrome such as speech therapy and is therefore familiar to your child.

    Considerations

    • Attention problems can be caused by other factors besides ADD such as celiac disease, thyroid problems, sleep problems, communicative disorders or emotional distress. Because of this, it is important to thoroughly investigate the cause of your child's symptoms before beginning treatment with drugs used for ADD.

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