What is Attention Deficit Disorder? 

Attention deficit disorder (ADD or ADHD) is a treatable neurobiological disorder which affects three to five percent of the population. Children, adolescents and adults with this disorder often exhibit symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and often times, hyperactivity.

 How is Attention Deficit Disorder Treated?

Treatment of attention disorder usually involves a multi-modal plan. The four cornerstones of the treatment plan will likely include medical management, behavior modification, counseling, and educational or organizational planning.

 How Can Medication Help?

There is emerging evidence to suggest that individuals with attention deficit disorders may have some form of dysfunction occurring in regions of the brain associated with control and regulation of attention, arousal, and activity. The medications charted fall into three classes: stimulants (Ritalin, Dexedrine, Cylert), anti-depressants (Tofranil, Desipramine), and antihypertensives (Catapres). These medications have all been shown to be effective in increasing attention and reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, each individual responds in their own unique way to medication depending upon the person’s physical make-up, severity of symptoms, and other possible problems accompanying the ADD. Therefore, careful monitoring should be done by a physician in collaboration with the teacher, therapist, parents, and patient.

Medication to treat attention deficit disorders and related conditions should only be prescribed by a physician. Information presented here is not intended to replace the advice of a physician.