Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses are becoming increasingly common among children today. With this rise in diagnoses, it is important to carefully consider the right treatment for each child. Unfortunately, some children may receive medication that they do not need. What should parents know?
ADHD diagnoses and medications are becoming more common
Statistics show that about one in ten children between the ages of 5 and 17 have received an ADHD diagnosis. Because of this increase, doctors often prescribe medications like Ritalin and Adderall to treat ADHD. These medications can be effective, but they can also have serious side effects like sleep disturbances, decreased appetite and mood swings.
Unfortunately, rising ADHD diagnoses have also led to a rise in mistakes involving these medicines. One study found that reports to poison centers related to ADHD medication rose by 300 percent between 2000 and 2021.
Is this medication necessary for every child?
There are concerns that some children might be receiving higher doses of medication than they need or unnecessary medication. Sometimes, children who might not fully meet the ADHD criteria are given medication. In other cases, healthcare providers might choose medicine as a quick fix instead of trying other ways like therapy, counseling or lifestyle changes.
Parents and healthcare providers need to work together to ensure the ADHD diagnosis and treatment plans are right for each child. This means doing careful assessments, watching progress and considering non-drug options as part of the treatment. If not, medicines meant to help could actually harm.
You can protect your child from overmedication
Medicine can be very helpful for managing ADHD symptoms, but it is important to stay balanced and avoid giving too much. If you think a doctor has given your child ADHD medication unnecessarily, consider getting a second opinion and talking to a medical malpractice attorney. They can help make sure your child gets the care they really need to succeed.