ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER – ADHD (HYPERKINETIC SYNDROME)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
This disorder is more common in boys. Persistent inattention, hyperactivity and impulsively are the cardinal features. These affect their scholastic performance.
Impulsive and reckless behavior is common. Brain damage due to birth trauma, allergy to food containing tartrazine, toxicity to lead and overactivity of peripheral adrenergic system are some of the recognized causes.
Treatment:
Stimulant drugs such as dexedrine 2.5-5 mg twice a day, clonidine, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors are beneficial. Many children become normal as they reach adolescence. Atomoxetine HCl is a recently introduced drug for this condition.
