ADD Remedies

ADD (attention deficit disorder) and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are chronic conditions that are primarily diagnosed in children, although adults can also be diagnosed with ADD. Symptoms include difficulty focusing and paying attention, inability to prioritize and complete tasks, fidgeting, forgetfulness and impulsiveness. ADD may be accompanied by low self-esteem and social difficulties. Treatments include stimulant medications, nonstimulant medications, and therapy. Because the condition is chronic, treatments may be required indefinitely in order to remedy ADD symptoms.

Stimulant Medications

• According to the Mayo Clinic, stimulant drugs are the most popular and prevalent treatment for ADD. Stimulant drugs encourage the production of neurotransmitters in the brain that help with behavior management and impulse control. As a result, these stimulants help minimize and control the symptoms of ADD. There are three major classes of stimulant drugs: dextroamphetamines, dextroamphetamine-amphetamines and methylphenidates. Ritalin is a methylphenidate. Adderall is a dextroamphetamine-amphetamine. Dexedrine is a dextroamphetamine. These drugs may cause side effects including significant weight gain or loss, irritability and withdrawal symptoms, insomnia and a reduced growth rate. In rare cases, they may lead to heart problems or heart-related deaths.

Other Drug Treatments

• If children do not respond to stimulants and/or begin to experience side effects, other drug treatments may be recommended. "Once-Daily Atomoxetine Treatment for Children and Adolescents With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder," a study conducted by Dr. David Michelson, M.D., that was published in the November 2002 American Journal of Psychology, concluded that Atomoxetine, an anti-anxiety medicine, may help relieve ADD and ADHD symptoms when administered twice daily. Potential side effects include nausea, fatigue and weight loss. In rare cases, liver problems, including jaundice, have developed. Antidepressents may be used if neither stimulants or atomoxetine are effective, and/or if children also suffer from mood disorders in conjunction with ADD or ADHD . Finally, the Mayo Clinic recommends two medications for high blood pressure, Clonidine and Tenex, to help relieve ADD symptoms. Clinical trials sponsored by Addrenex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. have proven these medications to be effective in some patients.

Therapy

• A number of different therapy methods are used to treat ADD. According to the Mayo Clinic, and Marty L. Hinz, president of clinical research at NeuroResearch Clinics, behavioral modification, including scheduling and a clear system of rewards and consequences, has been shown to be effective at improving ADD symptoms. Family therapy is also useful to help parents and siblings learn to communicate effectively with an ADD child. Psychotherapy may prove helpful if children suffer adverse social consequences as a result of their ADD, as it provides children with a chance to confront their feelings. Finally, parents may benefit from parenting classes or skills training to help learn to manage and control a behaviorally challenged ADD child.