Treating ADD requires a multi-modal approach. For many children with ADD, medication, primarily, psychostimulants, is an important part of treatment. Behavior management is also crucial. Without specialized interventions, most children with ADD find it very difficult to meet academic and behavioral expectations.

Treating ADD requires medical, psychological and educational interventions, and behavior management techniques. It requires the coordinated efforts of a team of health care professionals, educators and parents. Parents often play the critical role of coordinating the array of services and programs. A multi-modal treatment approach includes:

- Parent training in behavior management

- Appropriate educational program

- Individual and family counseling when needed

- Medication when required

MEDICATION:

Psychostimulants are the most widely used medication for the management of ADD related symptoms. 70-80% of children with ADD respond positively to psychostimulants. These medications decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity, increase attention and, is some children, decrease aggression.

Psychostimulants used in the treatment of ADD include Ritalin (methylphenidate)--the most widely prescribed medication--dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), and Cylert (pemoline). Contrary to popular perception, psychostimulants can also be effective with adolescents and adults with ADD.

The specific dose of medicine must be determined for each child. To ensure proper dosage, regular monitoring at different levels of medication is required. Periodic trials off medication are conducted to determine continued need.

The most common side-effects of psychostimulants are reduction in appetite, loss of weight, and problems falling asleep. These side-effects are usually managed effectively by changing the does of the medication.

Anti-depresants, used less frequently for ADD, have been shown go be effective for some children. They are used when contraindications to psychostimulants exist, or when psychostimulants have been ineffective or have resulted in unacceptable side-effects.