Should parents medicate their children for ADHD?

The decision of whether or not to medicate a child for ADHD is a complex one that should be made in consultation with a child's doctor. There is no easy answer, as the decision depends on many factors, such as the severity of the child's symptoms, the child's age, and the potential side effects of medication. The evidence suggests that medication can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of ADHD, especially when combined with behavioral therapy. However, there is also some controversy surrounding the use of ADHD medication, with some experts arguing that it is overused and may have serious side effects. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to medicate a child for ADHD is a personal one that should be made by the child's parents in consultation with their doctor.

When used, most children treated with medication for ADHD see improvement in one or more of the following:

- The ability to pay attention

- Ability to complete assignments

- Behavior

- Impulsivity

- Motor Coordination (in cases of hyperactivity- impulsivity subtype)

Many doctors use medication for children who meet all the following:

- Symptoms started early before age 7,

- They cause difficulty at school

- Difficulty playing quietly

- Symptoms don't get better or even worse