With a prevalence of 3–4%, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most often diagnosed mental diseases. It is frequently used to address the condition’s usual symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. Since it’s a developmental illness, the symptoms usually become noticeable in the early years of life, before the age of twelve. The symptoms could impair your performance at home and at school and make it more difficult to establish and maintain friendships.
As a psychologist, I don’t write prescriptions for drugs. Nevertheless, parents are often asked, “Should my child with ADHD be on medication?” despite this. Furthermore, “What are the downsides of medication?” Ask “Aren’t too many kids on medication anyway?” as a follow-up question. Parents and other professionals may get answers about the methylphenidate medication in particular from a research that was published in the British Medical Journal last year.
One of the most often recommended medications for ADHD worldwide is methylphenidate. In addition, it is sold under other brand names, such as Quillivant, Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, and Daytrana. Despite being used for more than 50 years to treat ADHD and other disorders, as well as studies showing its efficacy in reducing symptoms of impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity, no thorough analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of this medication had been done before this study.
What is methylphenidate’s potential for learning?
Throughout their investigation, researchers perused hundreds of publications that looked at the effects of methylphenidate on ADHD children. The study came to the conclusion that methylphenidate might improve kids’ academic performance. When it came to students with ADHD who are on medication, teachers reported less complaints about ADHD and an improved general attitude. In addition, parents were happier with their children’s high quality of life when they were on medicine.
Methylphenidate may have negative effects, such as decreased appetite and sleeplessness, according to some studies. They fall under the heading of “non-serious adverse effects.” But if you’re looking after a child who isn’t eating or sleeping well, these might get serious. It’s crucial to understand that there is no proof that methylphenidate can have major negative effects that could lead to potentially fatal situations, such as those that necessitate hospitalization or result in long-lasting health issues.
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What guidance should parents offer their kids?
What does this suggest for parents who are considering whether to get their child an ADHD medication? First of all, they don’t have to be concerned about the possibility of major, long-term issues arising from methylphenidate, the medication that is most commonly prescribed. It probably won’t. Furthermore, the majority of kids on methylphenidate (about 25% according to this study) can have mild, transient side effects such trouble sleeping, trouble eating, and trouble sleeping. Parents need to be prepared to see these symptoms in their kids. Parents can find potential remedies if they are aware that problems like these might be problematic and get better as the youngster gets used to the medication. For example, eating a hearty breakfast before taking the drug or lowering the dosage if you have trouble sleeping. You can talk to the pediatrician about any of these worries. Once they’ve been located, there are remedies. Parents can feel secure knowing that these drugs will enhance their family’s quality of life, help their child behave better at school, and lessen attention issues caused by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and attention issues.
Treatment for ADHD The more comprehensive image
The study is unable to offer a conclusive response to the query of how many children take medicine. Studies have revealed that up to one-third or more of children with serious developmental and psychiatric problems go untreated, which is fascinating (and often unexpected to many). There are many youngsters that require assistance in the form of schooling, counseling, or, in some cases, medication. When it comes to prescription drugs, this study focuses on just one.
Making the decision on which treatment approach to use to find out if your child has ADHD is not simple. There are other options besides medicine. Certain coping strategies that aid ADHD youngsters in learning new skills have also been demonstrated in some studies to be useful. Studies indicate that a combination approach may yield more effectiveness. Medication may also help kids benefit more from non-medicated therapies, such as support and care for school-related issues. Methylphenidate-based drugs have relatively small drawbacks compared to their advantages when prescribed effectively by a doctor who routinely treats these conditions.
