The management of ADHD involves both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, tailored to individual needs NICE NG87.
Before starting any treatment, discuss the benefits and harms of both approaches, lifestyle factors, and patient preferences, recording these in the treatment plan NICE NG87.
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 NICE NG87.
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 NICE NG87.
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 NICE NG87.
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 NICE NG87.
Dietary advice emphasizes a balanced diet and regular exercise, but there is no evidence supporting elimination diets or fatty acid supplementation as effective treatments NICE NG87.