MANAGEMENT OF ADHD

The management of ADHD involves both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, tailored to individual needs ¹.

Before starting any treatment, discuss the benefits and harms of both approaches, lifestyle factors, and patient preferences, recording these in the treatment plan ¹.

For children aged 5 years and over and young people, offer environmental modifications first, and if symptoms persist with significant impairment, consider medication after a full baseline assessment and discussion with the patient and family ¹.

Medication should only be initiated by healthcare professionals with training and expertise in managing ADHD, and should be tailored to the individual, considering pharmacokinetic profiles and physical health ¹.

Non-pharmacological interventions include ADHD-focused psychological support, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), especially for those who have benefited from medication but still experience impairment ¹.

Additional support for parents and carers, including education, advice on parenting strategies, and liaison with educational settings, should be provided, with group-based or individual parent-training programmes as appropriate ¹.

Dietary advice emphasizes a balanced diet and regular exercise, but there is no evidence supporting elimination diets or fatty acid supplementation as effective treatments ¹.