ADHD and medication: how to use drug treatment properly?
Drug treatment is one of the most effective therapeutic options for ADHD, but also one of the most misunderstood. Here is what you need to know to use it optimally and get the most benefit from it.
How ADHD medication works
The medications most commonly prescribed for ADHD in France are methylphenidates, sold under the names Ritaline, Concerta, Quasym and Medikinet. These stimulants increase the availability of dopamine and noradrenaline in the attentional circuits of the prefrontal cortex. Put simply, they help the ADHD brain make better use of its own neurological resources to sustain attention and control impulses. The effect is noticeable relatively quickly, often within the days following the start of treatment.
What medication does and does not do
Medication significantly improves the attentional and behavioural symptoms of ADHD. It does not cure the disorder, and its effects stop when treatment is stopped. It does not transform the child’s personality and should not make them zombie-like or overly calm: if this is the case, the dose is probably too high and needs adjusting. And it works better when combined with behavioural therapies and school adjustments rather than on its own.
Side effects and how to manage them
The most common side effects are reduced appetite, particularly at lunchtime, and difficulty falling asleep if the medication is taken too late in the day. These effects are usually manageable with adjustments to the dose or timing of intake. Other effects such as headaches or irritability towards the end of the day may appear and should be reported to the prescriber.
Days without medication: school holidays
Whether or not to continue treatment during school holidays is a frequent question. The decision is individual and should be made with the doctor. Some children benefit from a break during the holidays to allow better growth and a better appetite. Others need their treatment all year round to manage social and emotional activities. For resources on drug treatment for ADHD and its options, professionnelsdys.fr offers a directory of specialists.
