Your Dr. May be right. There are countless therapies that do not include dangerous medication.
Medication-Free Therapies Proven Successful in ADHD Treatment
Meds can cause heart issues, liver failure, dependency, and even an increased risk of cancer
Not to mention that there have been no credible studies done on the long term effects of these drugs on a developing child's brain.Concerns With ADHD Drugs
While studies have shown that intense excersise and involvement in sports alleviates many symptoms...that coupled with some behavior therapy and there is no need for medication.
I am not being preachy, but I have had family members who have had issues with these drugs..and I try to let people know when I can that just because a doc gives it to you, does not mean it is safe. Good luck with your daughter.
With all due respect to you, medications used in the treatment of ADHD symptoms are some of
the most widely researched medications that are used for children. Specifically, methlyphenidate (Ritalin) may perhaps be THE most researched medication used for children.
Medicines: Since the 1920s, medicines such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) have been used. They are stimulants, and appear to stimulate the self-control areas of the brain. Another medicine often used is dextroamphetamine/amphetamine (Adderall). These medicines do not slow you down, but rather increase self-regulation. About 70% of children with ADHD improve with these medicines. The most common side effects are loss of appetite and trouble getting to sleep. Your child's dosage will be gradually adjusted to reduce side effects. Sometimes, medicines are used only on school days. When these medicines are not effective, there are other medicines that can help with ADHD.
http://www.massgeneral.org/children/childhealthatoz/articles.aspx?article=pa_addpedia_bhp.htm
DMarshall was not asking for an opinion on the dangers of her choice to use medications. She was asking for help in seeking a 2nd opinion from a qualified professional. A developmental pediatrician is the perfect choice for such a 2nd opinion.
While medications are not "the only way", nor always effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD in every child, it would certainly be a good idea to have the facts when making those decisions. I'm very sorry your family members had a bad reaction or adverse affects from taking that type of medication. Not every person reacts the same to every medication, and not every medication works for every person. There are so many variables in the treatment of disorders, it is impossible to name all side effects and outcomes. Naturally, an informed choice is best when trying to decide what to do.
The link I provided above is to Massachusetts General Childrens' Hospital. Some of the world's most renowned specialists in ADHD and other childhood disorders work there. (Joseph Biederman, MD, Michael Jellinek, MD, Timothy Wilens, MD are some of the more widely known. Dr. Wilens has written a book on these types of medications, as well.)
Additionally, you can also read an excerpt on the medications used for ADHD from Dr. Timothy Wilens' book "Straight Talk about Psychiatric Medications for Kids", page 23 (a copy of which I happen to own) here:
Two excellent resources for anyone wanting to take the time.
