A CALL TO ATTENTION
A CALL TO ATTENTION
What medication is available and how effective is it?
The good, news: Medication is very effective for ADD, especially stimu¬lants like Addwize (methylphenidate). Atomoxetine, clonidine hydrochloride-ride or haloperidol (an antipsychotic) are also used. They help 70-80 per¬cent of patients, increasing attention span, reducing hyperactivity.
But counseling is equally impor¬tant. A person with ADD is likely to have low confidence and negative per¬ceptions about her due to repeat¬ed frustrations. This is more so for those diagnosed as adults, as negative notions have had time to crystallise,
A crucial need in long-term man¬agement is a supportive environment in which the person can learn organ¬isational skills and time management, be aware of her own learning process¬es and the kind of physical environ¬ment she can be most productive in. Relaxation exercises, yoga, pranayam and behavioural therapy can all help.
That said, medications can he a cru¬cial component of treatment in mod-crate to severe cases.
Any side effects, drawbacks?
A few, which is why none of these are OTC drugs and you absolutely must have a prescription. There have been reports of danger to the liver, for one. Also, a medication is not as effective in adults as in children. Besides, being scheduled drugs, they are not easily available - not all chemists stock it.


