Parent Concerns about ADHD Medication
Jessica*: “I’m too nervous to put her on medication and would like to explore all other options first.”
Steven: “I worry about side effects.”
Samantha: “I am concerned it could diminish her personality.”
When ADHD medication is recommended, parents often experience a range of emotions.
Some feel relief, grateful that their concerns are validated and eager to move forward with treatment. For others, however, like those quoted above, there can be a great deal of hesitation or fear. Of course, it is natural to be concerned about any medication when it comes to your child!
Exploring ADHD Interventions
When a child has ADHD, there are several possible interventions:
Behavioral modifications at home (e.g., providing structure, predictability, and reminders).
Accommodation in the classroom (e.g., preferential seating, repeated instructions, etc.).
Healthy lifestyle changes – Improving sleep, diet, and incorporating regular exercise.
Additionally, other factors may lessen the impact of ADHD over time:
Maturity – The brain continues developing until the mid-20s.
Compensatory strategies – Over time, individuals may develop better organizational skills and heightened self-awareness.
Increased autonomy – Giving children more choice as to what they study and pursue.
When Is ADHD Medication Recommended?
There are many cases where medication – along with all of the above – becomes an important or even necessary option.
Any diagnosis and its treatment recommendations depend on three key factors:
Symptoms- (e.g., inattention, bores easily, distractibility, daydreaming etc.)
Severity- (mild, moderate, or severe).
Functional impact– How symptoms affect school performance, peer relationships, and mental health.
Understanding ADHD Medications
For some children with ADHD, medication is an important part of treatment. Rather than controlling behavior, it helps manage symptoms so that a child can function more effectively.
Types of ADHD Medication
1. Psychostimulants
The most widely used medications for the management of ADHD have been used for decades. Despite their name, these medications do not overstimulate the brain. Instead, they help nerve networks in the brain communicate more effectively.
Examples of psychostimulant medications are: Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall.
Dosage and timing must be carefully adjusted for each individual.
Children are monitored both on and off medication to assess effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
2. Non-Stimulants
Although stimulants are the most widely tested and used medications for the treatment of ADHD, some children, adolescents, and adults respond equally well or better to non-stimulant medications.
Non-stimulants may be used when psychostimulant medications have been ineffective, have unacceptable side effects have resulted, or when families prefer a non-stimulant for other reasons.
Common non-stimulant medications include:Strattera and Guanfacine.
Possible Side Effects of ADHD Medication
Most side effects related to the above medications are mild and temporary.
The most common side effects include:
Decreased appetite
Sleep difficulties
Headaches and stomachaches (often improving over time or with dosage adjustments).
Some children may experience slight changes in height and weight gain, though long-term growth is rarely affected. Some research suggests children with ADHD experience delays in puberty.
Since individual responses to medication vary, adjustments in type or dosage may be necessary.
Potential Benefits of ADHD Medication
Medication does not cure ADHD. However, when used effectively, it eases ADHD symptoms during the time the medication is active.
Studies indicate that 70–80% of children with ADHD respond positively to medications.
Symptoms that improve with medication, particularly in structured environments, often include:
Increased attention span
Reduced impulsivity
Better on-task behavior (especially in structured environments)
Improved frustration tolerance and compliance
Stronger relationships with parents, peers, and teachers
Making the Right Decision for Your Child
It is ultimately up to the parent to decide whether medication is best for their child and a thorough Educational and Neuropsychological evaluation is a critical component of that decision making-process. Whatever you decide, the goal remains the same: helping your child succeed and thrive.
To book a testing appointment or to speak further about my services, please feel free to contact me at 973-908-4860 or you can fill out our contact form here.
* All client names have been changed