ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments?

Although there is controversy surrounding them,be evaluated regularly. These medications are most
stimulants are still the most commonly prescribed typeeffective when they are administered in the correct
of medication for children with ADD and ADHD. Thedosage for each individual and when they are
Drug Enforcement Agency says that stimulant drugcombined with additional ADD treatments like
production has increased 500 percent since 1991, andbehavioral therapy and practical and emotional support.
over half of the prescriptions for them are written byNon-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera, can also be
pediatricians. Stimulants are often effective in treatingeffective, but carry a risk of similar side effects.In light
many of the symptoms of ADD -- but are they theof the risks that prescription medications carry, many
best ADD treatment for your child? Many parents areparents are interested in exploring an herbal remedy
concerned about the side effects stimulants canfor ADD. There is more than one herb that has been
produce and choose to investigate other options likeshown to be an effective ADD or ADHD child
behavioral therapy and herbal supplements as well.treatment, and there are a variety of natural remedies
When it comes to making a decision that affects youron the market that combine many of them. Ginko
child's health, having the facts is essential.ADD stimulantBiloba, Green Oats, Brahmi, Gotu Kola and Panax
medications work by increasing the levels of theGinseng are some of the best ingredients, and the
chemicals epinephrine and norepinephrine in the brain,positive effects of some of them (like Ginko) can
which helps the brain to transmit signals betweenbecome permanent even after discontinuing use.While
nerves. This improves a child's (or adult's) ability to paystimulant medication is often successful in treating
attention for extended periods of time. But theseADD, it can sometimes cause its own set of problems.
medications also come with a risk of mild and seriousWeigh the risks and the benefits carefully, and make
side effects. Some of the most common side effectsthe decision that is right for your own child. Just as
include headaches, upset stomach and increased bloodeach child exhibits symptoms of ADD differently, each
pressure, all of which may diminish as the body adjustschild will react differently to medication and treatment.
after the first few weeks of treatment. OtherPatience and thorough research should lead you to a
common side effects include decreased appetite (80%healthy solution for your child.Webmaster: You are
of stimulant users report this), nervousness andauthorized to reprint this article providing the author bio
sleeplessness. Research has also shown thatresource box is left completely in tact - including all
stimulants can stunt growth during treatment, but havehyperlinks.by Tess ThompsonTess Thompson is a
not been proven to affect final height. Less commonHomeopathic Practitioner, Reflexologist, Certified
but more serious side effects include hallucinations andAromatherapist, and Herbalist who contributes regularly
feelings of suspicion or paranoia, Tourette's Syndrome,to Native Remedies - where you can find All Natural
and suicidal thoughts.Children on stimulants (Ritalin,Homeopathic and Herbal Remedies for many health
Adderall and Concerta are the best-known brands)conditions including natural ADD treatment and herbal
should be watched closely and their dosages shouldremedy for ADD.