Choosing to Medicate Your ADHD Child

Choosing to medicate your child is one of the hardest decisions any parent can make. There is no right answer, only what is right for the specific child. When I first learned about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), I never thought I would be thinking about choosing to medicate my own child. I first thought it was a bunch of hype, brought on by overzealous doctors and drug companies. Then I had my own ADHD child and my world shifted from criticizing doctors to searching for the right ADHD medication.

Choosing to medicate a child is stressful, frustrating and scary. My son was diagnosed in second grade and my husband and I were adamant that he would never go on medication. I was still reeling from my perfect boy having a "label". However, his pediatrician assured us that ADHD was very common and that medication could help. We reluctantly decided to give medications like Concerta and Ritalin a try.

The Increase in ADHD Diagnosis

According to the CDC, about 5% of U.S. children aged 6-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD. Additionally, the average annual increase in childhood ADHD has increased 3% from 1997-2006. That means that my son joined a growing group of children in the United States where upwards of 5% of children are potentially medicated. This is worth millions of dollars to drug companies and it should be noted that they have a stake in getting your child on medication.

What to Expect When Trying Different Medications

Your child's doctor will, of course, be your families guide if you choose to medicate your child. However, not all doctors choose the same path when assessing medications. My son's pediatrician evaluates the medication, my son's height/weight and his behavior on the medication every three months. That is not the only way to evaluate medication. My son now goes to behavior therapy at a specialized ADHD clinic where they evaluate medication every week because they feel that you can see whether the medication is working within a week. That difference is huge when you are dealing with medicating a child and searching for the right medication.

You Do Not Have to Medicate Your ADHD Child

When your child is first diagnosed, you may feel like you want the experts to help you "cure" your child. First, remember that there is no "cure". There is management. Medication can help, but should not be the only strategy. Behavioral therapy and finding the right educational environment are keys to finding success strategies for your ADHD child. Many parents are now turning to alternative methods only to manage their child's ADHD with different degrees of success.

The Choice is Up to Parents, Not Doctors

As I stated previously, there is no right answer to the question of whether or not to medicate your ADHD child; there is only the right answer for your child and family. The best advice to get as educated as you can about ADHD, medications, therapies and educational services. Do not feel pressured to give your child medication and do not let anyone bully you into making the decision. If you are on the fence, do not try medication until you feel that it is the right decision to try. My son is no longer taking medication and we are trying alternative methods to manage his ADHD. However, what is right for my family is not right for yours. And only parents can make that decision.