ADHD Medication
Medication management has emerged as one of the primary treatment modalities for children with ADHD. Studies indicate that behavior therapy has positive effect when combined with medication for pre-adolescent children. Additionally, studies report that the combination allows for use of lower doses of stimulant medications, and possibly reduces the risk of adverse effects.
Before initiating medication, a comprehensive evaluation is crucial. This involves:
- A detailed medical history to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.
- Discussion about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to medication.
- Baseline measurement of height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate, given the potential effects of stimulants on appetite, growth, and cardiovascular system.
- Monitoring and Follow-up
ADHD medications, especially stimulants, have potential for misuse, particularly among adolescents. It is essential to counsel families and patients about the importance of safe storage, not sharing medications, and being aware of the signs of misuse.
While medication can be a critical component of ADHD management, it’s most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Behavioral therapies, psychoeducation, academic support, and parent training can be crucial adjuncts to pharmacotherapy.
Medication management for children with ADHD requires a systematic and individualized approach. The decision to start, stop, or change medications should always be made collaboratively with the child, family, and healthcare provider. Regular monitoring, being vigilant about potential side effects, and integrating non-pharmacological interventions are crucial for optimizing outcomes for children with ADHD.
Contact Mercie Health and Wellness to schedule a consultation to discuss medication management for ADHD. Located in Katy Texas, Mercie Health regularly sees patients from Richmond, Cinco Ranch, and Sugar Land, Texas. At Mercie Health and Wellness we provide a comprehensive, patient-centric approach involving regular monitoring and find that multiple treatment modalities often yield the best outcomes. Mercie Health offers On-site ADHD testing. You will always be treated with respect and dignity at Mercie Health. Contact us to schedule a consultation to learn more about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, receive the correct diagnosis and all your treatment options.
At a Glance
Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Double Board Certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C)
- Author of My Clinical Companion: Identifying Psychiatric Disorders and Developing Accurate Diagnosis
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