How is ADHD Best Treated?
 

Medication should be the first line of treatment, not used when other things fail. Delaying using medication almost always leads to further frustration. Most people don't like medication, for themselves or for their children. But at this point it is the only thing that works reliably for ADD/ADHD.

Treatment usually requires psychostimulants such as Metadate CD, Concerta, Ritalin, Focalin, dexedrine,  Adderall or Adderall XR. Wellbutrin (bupropion hydrochloride) also marketed as Zyban for stop smoking appears helpful. Strattera is also now available.  Other things don't seem to work, although there are many people trying to sell things that they believe help.

Parent education to help parents understand ADHD, to create effective discipline, and learn adequately about the medication is also very helpful.  Older children and adults can benefit from counseling when their self-esteem is damaged from ADHD.
 

Stimulant Medications to Treat ADHD (the way each works)

Doses of Stimulant Medications for ADHD

Comparison and Dosages of Stimulant Medications for ADHD  based on type of medication and weight. Makes it easy to make changes from one medication to another to similar effect.

The New Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor, Strattera