ADHD Information
(from the National Library of Medicine)

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder?
A condition characterized by an attention span that is less than expected for the age of the person; there is often also age-inappropriate hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.

Symptoms
The symptoms typically begin by 3 years of age. Attention deficit:

• does not pay close attention to details;
• may make careless mistakes at work, school, or other activities failure to complete tasks
• has difficulty maintaining attention in tasks or play activities
• does not listen when spoken to directly
• has difficulty organizing tasks is easily distracted
• unable to follow more than one instruction at a time

Hyperactivity:

• fidgeting, squirming in seat, or moving constantly
• wandering, may leave the seat in the classroom when expected to stay
• has trouble participating in "quiet" activities such as reading
• runs and climbs in inappropriate situations talks excessively

Impulsivity:

• may blurt out answers before questions have been completed
• has difficulty awaiting turn
• interrupts others
• disruptive behavior

Other:

• sleep problems
• apparent disregard for own safety

Treatment
Many medication methods of treatment have been tried. Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is usually treated with a course of medications followed by therapy and appropriate school placement. The primary medications used to treat attention deficit disorder include:

• Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) and other amphetamines such as Adderal may also be used in older children and adolescents
• Ritalin (methylphenidate)
• Cylert (magnesium pemoline)

Therapy techniques include:

• behavior modification
• parent counseling
• individual psychotherapy

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