ADHD in the News 2018-08-02
How stimulant treatments for ADHD work
Stimulant medications are an effective treatment for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In the classroom, parents and teachers say that medications like methylphenidate (MPH) can reduce symptoms and improve behavior. Although stimulants have been in use for decades to treat ADHD in school-aged children, just how they work hasn't been clear. But the results of a new study are filling in critical gaps about the role of improved cognitive functions.
Can we predict the long-term outcome of boys with ADHD?
A new study reports on a group of boys diagnosed with ADHD in childhood (when they were, on average, 8 years old) and followed into adulthood (when they were in their early 40s). The goal was to examine whether boys' characteristics in childhood and adolescence predicted their subsequent school performance, their work, and social adjustment.
Individual training of parents is best for small children with ADHD
A major research project highlights that individual behavioral treatment and support for parents who have preschool children with ADHD is significantly better than what is currently routinely offered in Danish Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.
Researchers Suggest Asthma, ADHD Linked in 2 Studies
Both asthma and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), both chronic conditions, have been associated with each other in previous studies, but questions remained as to the strength of the association because of other possible confounders. A new review of published data, followed by a population-based study, says the association remains after controlling for possible confounders.
When Medicines Affect a Child’s Mind and Behavior
What doctors and parents should discuss about medicating a child for A.D.H.D., anxiety or depression...Whenever I write about children getting medications for anxiety, for depression, or especially for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a certain number of readers respond with anger and suspicion...
Nonpharmacologic treatments for ADHD lack evidence base
“There are many approaches other than medications to treat ADHD, such as neurofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, or even dietary supplements,” says Alex R. Kemper, MD, division chief, Ambulatory Pediatrics, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio. “We were interested in finding out how these treatments work, either alone or in combination with medications to improve ADHD symptoms.”