The ABC's of ADHD Medication: Attention Deficit Treatment Advice

Five rules for using ADHD medication to safely and effectively treat symptoms of attention deficit disorder.

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Rule 5: Eat Right

Consider a child’s diet and medications.

Children who eat a typical ADHD Diet may not be getting all the benefits of medication. If your child is taking Adderall XR, Metadate CD, or Ritalin LA, for instance, a high-fat breakfast can compromise its effectiveness, delaying the drug’s absorption. Drinks rich in ascorbic acid/vitamin C or citric acid (orange, grapefruit, and other drinks supplemented with vitamin C) may interfere with the absorption of Ritalin. Citric acid breaks down the medication before it has a chance to be absorbed by the body.

Did You Know: Cold/sinus/hay fever medications that contain decongestants (antihistamines without decongestants are okay) may cause a child on medication to experience a mildly unpleasant “buzz.” Over-the-counter or prescription weight-control medications, steroids, and asthma medications containing albuterol or theophylline can have the same effect.

More ADHD Medication Advice

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Psychiatric Medications for Children with ADHD

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TAGS: ADHD Medication and Children, ADHD Stimulant Medications, ADD Meds: Dosing


