In some, medications alone will be effective,while in others a combination of treatments will be required.

The following are the treatment modes that are effective for children with AHDH:

a) Medication-'Stimulants' are a group of drugs that are effectively used in the treatment of ADHD. The right dose of these drugs emphatically reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity besides dramatically improving the patient's physical coordination and the potential to focus, work, and learn.

Neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine are reported to be involved in the dynamics of ADHD. The stimulants work on the neurotransmitter dopamine,while a new drug, recently approved by the FDA called Strattera, or atomoxetine, works on the neurotransmitter, norepinephrine.

Adults too are treated for ADHD with stimulants;anti depressants may also be used in treating them.

Side effects of the stimulants are far and few, and often results due to incorrect dose. Higher doses results in greater side effects. Common side effects due to the stimulants are-

 Decreased appetite

 Insomnia

 Increased anxiety

 Irritability

 Mild stomach aches / headaches in some children

The following is a list of ADHD medications-

Trade Name	Generic Name	Approved Age
Adderall	Amphetamine	3 and older
Concerta	Methylphenidate(long acting)	6 and older
Cylert*	Pemoline	6 and older
Dexedrine	Dextroamphetamine	3 and older
Dextrostat	Dextroamphetamine	3 and older
Focalin	Dexmethylphenidate	6 and older
Metadate ER	Methylphenidate(extended release)	6 and older
Metadate CD	Methylphenidate(extended release)	6 and older
Ritalin	Methylphenidate	6 and older
Ritalin SR	Methylphenidate(extended release)	6 and older
Ritalin LA	Methylphenidate(long acting)	6 and older
*Due to its potential for serious side effects affecting the liver, Cylert should not ordinarily be considered as first-line drug therapy for ADHD.

(Source and Courtesy -
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/ADHD)

b) Psychotherapy helps individuals with ADHD to accept and like themselves, despite their condition. This treatment does not address the causes or the symptoms; instead it prompts the patient to confess self-defeating thoughts and behavioral patterns and teaches them to cope with their emotions.

c) Behavioral therapy (BT) works by developing effective ways to solve a pressing problem. Behavior therapy helps to change the thought pattern which may then lead to behavioral changes. Practical assistance is provided to organise their life in a better fashion. They are taught to shedule their lives and also to maintain notebook organizers The affected children may be motivated to control compulsive behaviors and are taught to like themselves.

d) Training in social skills helps children to learn new skills and behaviors in order to develop and maintain better social relationships. The child is taught to seek help if need arises,share things like toys,wait for their turn and other such behaviors that will help them to interact better with adults and children their age.

e) Training in parenting skills, given by therapists, provides parents with tools and techniques for managing a child with ADHD. One simple technique is to reward good work; another is to punish the child through isolation when the child gets out of control. Such times provide the child with an oportunity to sit quietly and to calm down. Parents are encouraged to spend quality time with their children and this lends them an oportunity to observe their child closely.

f) Support groups help parents and care takers of affected individuals to reach out to others who are similarly affected. Support group members often meet regularly to air their failures and acheivements and also to listen to experts talking on the subject.There is a great relief in knowing that there are others out there who have similar problems and that one is not alone.