When your child is diagnosed with ADD or ADHD, deciding on the best form of treatment can be an extremely debilitating and intensely personal process.
Recent headlines about the dangerous side effects of commonly prescribed drugs, such as Ritalin and Concerta, may leave parents ashamed of their decision to provide these drugs to their children. It is important to remember that, although some children who take these drugs experience disturbing side effects, many of them are effectively treated. But it is also important to know about alternatives and to know about natural medicines and ingredients that have shown that they are very effective and safe.
To make the best decision about treating your child, you need to understand what medicines are most often prescribed by doctors and what they do.
Stimulants (such as Ritalin, Addell and Concert) increase brain activity and, as a rule, increase the alertness and ability of the child to pay attention. The most common side effects of these drugs are mood changes, headaches, irritability, insomnia, and loss of appetite. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration received reports that Concerta was producing more serious side effects, such as psychosis, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts among some users.
Nonstimulants, such as Strattera, increase the attention and control of impulses by monitoring a brain chemical that is believed to affect these behaviors. Side effects similarly include moodiness, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin, relieve anxiety and regulate mood, changing the chemical composition of the brain. These drugs are usually prescribed to children suffering from both ADHD and depression. Side effects may include dizziness, weight loss, and suicidal thoughts.
Many natural remedies for ADHD and ADD have proven to be equally effective and can be excellent alternatives for prescribing Ritalin for children, since homeopathic medicines do not cause the same side effects.
When researching natural remedies as a treatment for ADHD, look for the ingredients that have been shown to be the most beneficial. One of them is Centella Asiatica (also called Gotu Kola), a natural ingredient that is known to reduce anxiety and improve memory and brain function. Recent studies suggest that it may also help increase blood flow to the brain and improve overall blood circulation.
Another popular ingredient, Green Oats (also called Avena sativa) acts as a nerve tonic, the soothing effects of which grow with time and constant use.
Panax Ginseng, a Chinese herb, has been shown in studies to strengthen the immune system, reduce stress and fatigue, increase motivation and normalize body functions.
There are many natural remedies specifically designed to treat ADHD in children. Each child is unique and will react unequivocally to medicines, so trust your instincts and allow time for entry into force. As always, consult your doctor if you have questions, but you may find that homeopathic medicines provide your child with a safe and natural way to asymptomatic life associated with ADHD.
