CHILDREN WITH ADHD Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

CHILDREN WITH ADHD - Term Paper Example sists in treating Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); it stimulates brain cells, and adjusts hyperactivity, helps in concentrating and modifies motor skills also. But these medications are usually adjusted for every child with trial and error and the precise medication and dosage is determined per child as per his bodily reactions towards it. Some of the side effects related with these medications are; anxiety, sleeping disorders, stomach aches etc. Certain dietary supplements are reported to have positive effects on an Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affected child. A child consuming healthy diets has an edge on combating the disease; this includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat protein diets. Where as a child with ADHD will have negative effects on his health if he is taking food additives and excessive sugar (AACAP, 2013). The most common drug prescribed for Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is Ritalin, it is readily available and generally it is given to children six years and above, but in a special cases it can be prescribed for younger children. Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate, and it reacts with the chemicals of brain and nerves which controls impulses. It is an addictive drug and it is not prescribed for pre-schoolers for a long period. Parents who are dealing with a child having Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have to be much more vigilant, not only on the child in question, but on his older siblings as well. Since Ritalin is the readily available drug for ADHD, its abuse is very common too. Adult siblings of ADHD affected kids often caught of abusing this drug, because it causes alertness, gives a boost of energy and attention which helps them in performing better in tests. However the longer intake of this drug can be extremely harmful, even fatal (CESAR, 2013). Virginia is the second largest state which prescribes Ritalin for the treatment of ADHD in children. It