Inattentive ADD Treatment

Inattention, along with hyperactivity and impulsiveness, is one of the three key symptoms of ADD, according to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Inattentive ADD is treated nearly identically as a general diagnosis of ADD, whether or not the other symptoms are present enough to be problematic. Medications are the front-line treatment for inattentive ADD. Psychotherapy is another option, either alone or in conjunction with medication. Understanding these treatments is integral in finding the inattentive ADD treatment right for you or someone you know with the disorder.

Medications

• The most commonly prescribed medications for inattentive ADD are members of a class called stimulants. Most of these are of the sub-category amphetamine-type drugs, and are available by prescription only.

  Instant release formulations to treat inattentive ADD include Ritalin (methylphenidate), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), and Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts). Convenient extended-release formulations also exist to treat inattentiveness due to ADD throughout the entire day. Some of these are Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), Adderall XR (extended-release amphetamine) and Concerta (methylphenidate).
  Medications, according to NIMH, are very effective in controlling inattentive ADD symptoms. However, they're not the only option.

Therapy

• NIMH states that behavioral therapy is an effective option to help both children and adults with inattentive ADD. Some aspects of this therapy include teaching new behaviors and implementing new methods of organizing tasks upon which it may normally be difficult for the person suffering from inattentive ADD to focus.

  With children, behavioral therapy may involve the help of parents. Parents may also learn new methods for coping with their child with inattentive ADD.

  For adults, beneficial, practical skills may be taught in behavioral therapy, such as keeping a planner or date book, breaking large tasks into smaller pieces, and coping with life events associated with inattentive ADD.

Education

• Education is an important part in anyone's treatment for inattentive ADD. Many people with the condition may feel "stupid" or like a "daydreamer," and learning about how the disease effects people is important to dispelling those negative views.

  The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) is an excellent resource for those suffering from inattentive ADD. The organization hosts events and offers support through linking people who have ADD or inattentive ADD in a community atmosphere, where they can discuss their condition and receive the latest news. Also, most medication product websites, like that of Vyvanse, also offer information about inattentive ADD, including surveys that can be taken to determine if treatment is recommended.

  Knowing more about ADD can help the person suffering from the condition to feel less alone, and to understand the nature of inattentive ADD more clearly.