Dr. Edward Hallowell’s Advice about Medication for ADHD

curated by Cynthia Hammer, MSW

[When parents are concerned about their child taking medicine for their ADHD], I counter their concerns by worrying about the potential “side effects” of not taking the medication: namely, their children struggling to stay focused and getting frustrated when they couldn’t. After envisioning that scenario, the decision became far less difficult.

 Remember that a trial of medication is just that — a trial. Unlike surgery, it can be undone. If the medication doesn’t work or if it produces side effects, the physician can reduce the dosage or discontinue it. No harm done. But unless your child tries the medication, you will never know if it can benefit him or her as it has other children and adults.

 Get all the facts, and make a scientific, rather than a superstitious, decision. But I urge you never to start your child on medication until you’re comfortable doing so. Don’t feel that you’re trying your doctor’s patience or that your questions are foolish. Nothing done out of love for your child is foolish.

 Involve children in medication decision.

“I never recommend forcing a child to take medication,” says Hallowell. “It’s a recipe for bad outcomes.” He suggests having your child do the following:

• Share what he’s heard about the medication, pro and con.

• Learn the facts about the medication.

• Talk about any fears he may still have about the drug or the potential embarrassment of going to the nurse’s office at school to take a pill (long-lasting drugs that work all day should eliminate the latter concern).