Common parental concerns about ADHD and methylphenidate treatment

ADHD

Psychology

FAQ about ADHD: Some common concerns of parents

Why is hyperactivity such a debilitating diagnosis for my child?

Children who are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have trouble realizing their full potential in school, because they cannot concentrate. Because of poor performance, they may perceive themselves as 'stupid' and not achieve basic developmental milestones in their studies, although they are capable of doing so intellectually. They may become alienated from their peers as well as their teachers because of their defiant and attention-seeking behaviors, over which they have little control. Poor organizational skills and being easily distracted can also impair their success in sports and other extracurricular activities. Children who are impulsive may blurt out inappropriate things, behave rudely, or even engage in dangerous actions.

Q3: What side effects are typical when a child is taking methylphenidate?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health: "The most commonly reported side effects are decreased appetite, sleep problems, anxiety, and irritability. Some children also report mild stomachaches or headaches. Most side effects are minor and disappear over time or if the dosage level is lowered."

Q4: Can their children become addicted to methylphenidate?

While there has been a great deal of publicity in the media about how the drugs prescribed for ADHD have been abused, it is important to make a clear distinction between the pharmacological use of such drugs to treat behavioral disorders and individuals using them for recreational purposes. Individuals without ADHD who are self-prescribing, and using such medications to stay awake and focused for long periods of time are not carefully monitoring their doses to facilitate a normal existence, but are striving to test their limits.

Q5: Would consuming an addictive drug now increase my child's chances of abusing drugs later in life?

According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): "research thus far suggests that individuals with ADHD do not become addicted to their stimulant medications when taken in the form and dosage prescribed by their doctors. Furthermore, several studies report that stimulant therapy in childhood does not increase the risk for subsequent drug and alcohol abuse disorders later in life." In fact, poor performance in school and negative peer, family, and teacher relationships is far more likely to be correlated with drug abuse: and negative social and academic experiences are what drug treatment is ultimately attempting to prevent or mitigate in children with ADHD.

Reference

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (2009, June 15). NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health). Retrieved January 25, 2010 at http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/complete-index.shtml

NIDA InfoFacts: Stimulant ADHD Medications - methylphenidate and amphetamines.

(2009, October 2). National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Retrieved January 25, 2010

at http://www.drugabuse.gov/InfoFacts/ADHD.html