Medical Health Encyclopedia

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)


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Alternative treatments for ADHD have become popular, including herbs, supplements, and chiropractic treatments. However, there is little or no solid evidence that these work.


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Expectations (prognosis)

ADHD is a long-term, chronic condition. If it is not treated appropriately, ADHD may lead to:

  • Drug and alcohol abuse
  • Failure in school
  • Problems keeping a job
  • Trouble with the law

About half of children with ADHD will continue to have troublesome symptoms of inattention or impulsivity as adults. However, adults are often more capable of controlling behavior and masking difficulties.


Calling your health care provider
  • Difficulties at home, school, and in relationships with peers
  • Medication side effects
  • Signs of depression


Review Date: 04/11/2011
Reviewed By: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., Fred K. Berger, MD, Addiction and Forensic Psychiatrist, Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, California.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




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