For more than seven decades, scientists have puzzled over the pharmacological mechanisms that somehow interact in children to reduce hyperactivity when they receive medications including methylphenidate — known by the trade names Ritalin, Concerta, and Methylin — and methamphetamine. Since the mid-1950s, millions of children and adults have been prescribed stimulant medications to control attention deficit hyperactivity [...]
Multiple exposures to anesthesia at a young age are associated with higher rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to researchers at the Mayo Clinic. Children exposed to two or more anesthetics before age 3 had more than double the incidence of ADHD than children who had no exposure, says David Warner, M.D., a [...]
A Canadian study suggests a genetic variation can increase the risk of medical complications among children receiving antipsychotic medications. Investigators discovered the genetic variation can cause a six-fold greater risk for children to develop metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a combination of symptoms that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. The study showed susceptible children [...]
Although it may seem paradoxical, a new study finds that a structured physical activity program can help children who suffer from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD often struggle with hyperactive impulses and have trouble maintaining attention. Researchers discovered performing defined physical exercises helped children improve muscular coordination and motor skills, and enhanced their [...]
As Psych Central reported earlier this month, there continues to be a nationwide shortage of medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but there are signs the situation is improving. Primarily affected are those who use generic versions of name-brand ADHD medications, such as Adderall and Methylin. The ADHD drug shortage started in [...]
As Psych Central reported earlier this month, there continues to be a nationwide shortage of medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but there are signs the situation is improving. Primarily affected are those who use generic versions of name-brand ADHD medications, such as Adderall and Methylin. The ADHD drug shortage started in [...]
New research investigates the benefit of adding an additional drug for children who have displayed a suboptimal response to traditional attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) medication. In the study, Timothy E. Wilens, M.D., and colleagues assessed the efficacy and safety of guanfacine extended release (GXR, also known by its brand name, Intuniv) as an adjunct to psychostimulants (such as [...]
New research investigates the benefit of adding an additional drug for children who have displayed a suboptimal response to traditional attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) medication. In the study, Timothy E. Wilens, M.D., and colleagues assessed the efficacy and safety of guanfacine extended release (GXR, also known by its brand name, Intuniv) as an adjunct to psychostimulants (such as [...]
According to new research, a baby born to a mother with gestational diabetes mellitus, diabetes that is brought about by pregnancy, and who is poor appears to be at far greater risk for eventually developing childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — 14 times greater than children exposed to neither. Researchers led by Yoko Nomura, [...]
A new study that looked at 150,000 adults who use popular medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) found no increased risk for serious heart problems. More and more, adults are turning to medications to treat ADHD. Their use in adults is outstripping their use in children and teens. These medications have been shown [...]
