ADHD Parents Medication Guide: Understanding Treatment Options

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral condition marked by excessive restlessness, inattention, distraction, and impulsivity that interferes with a child's daily functioning at home, at school, and with friends. Research suggests that in an average classroom of 30 children, at least one will have ADHD. For many families, deciding whether and how to use medication is one of the most important — and most worrying — parts of treatment.

This guide, prepared by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Psychiatric Association, helps parents and caregivers understand the medications used to treat childhood ADHD: the difference between stimulant and non-stimulant options, how each is taken, what side effects to watch for, and when to call your child's doctor.

It also covers questions about addiction risk, school support and 504 plans, coexisting conditions, and the evidence behind behavioral treatments. Every decision about your child's care should be made together with a qualified health care professional who knows your child's full medical history.

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