The increasing awareness and diagnosis Of ADHD in children has led to inquisitiveness on different modes of treatment of ADHD. There has been a phenomenal increase in the usage of behavioral medicines in children with ADHD. Psycho-stimulant medications improve the behavioral function of Children with ADHD. Caffeine is one among the psycho-stimulant medications used in treating children with ADHD.

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant with a weak diuretic effect. Previously it was predominantly used to treat migraine and as a respiratory stimulant. Presently its role and effectiveness in treatment of children with ADHD has been recognized.

Caffeine with other two commonly used drugs in treatment of ADHD like Methylphenidate, Atomoxetiene is a psycho-stimulant and is readily available. It has got methylxanthine as an active component. The effect of caffeine starts within 15 minutes of its consumption with peak maximum effort at 45 minutes, with an average duration of action of 4 to 6 hrs.

At a dose of 150-250mg there is an -

• Increased sense of wellbeing
• Less fatigability
• Better alertness
• Increased motor activity
• Better performance
• Even after sustained intellectual efforts clear thinking predominates
• Combats boredom

Caffeine is a constituent of common beverages like coffee, tea, soft drinks, coke and chocolates. At higher doses it causes nervousness, restlessness, panic, sleeplessness and excitement. With still further higher doses, it can cause even convulsions.

Studies have shown limited usefulness of caffeine in controlling the primary symptoms of ADHD like inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity with little or inconsistent effect on the social and academic performance.

The advantages are -

• Easily available
• Over the counter drug without prescription
• Alternative to prescribed medication
• Safe for both short and long term use

The disadvantages are -

• Dose not regulated
• Efficacy equivocal
• No statistical significant studies to prove its efficacy in the management of ADHD.
• Few data supports its shot term effects but no data supports its long -term effects.

Learn more about Caffeine and Attention Deficit Disorder.

Other ADHD Articles:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ADHD - Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD as commonly known, is a neurobehavioral disorder of childhood.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acid and ADHD - Essential fatty acids are fatty acids which are not synthesized in the body and are supplemented in the diet.

• Magnesium, Zinc, and Vitamins for ADHD - Children with ADHD are exposed to multiple problems due to their enhanced risk of social, emotional and educational backwardness compared to their peer group and added to the risk is the non availability of appropriate therapy which makes it serious.

• Caffeine and ADHD - The increasing awareness and diagnosis Of ADHD in children has led to inquisitiveness on different modes of treatment of ADHD.

• Lemon Balm and ADHD - In the treatment of ADHD the usage of alternative medicines and involvement of alternative medical practitioners are increasing as the parents of children suffering from ADHD persistently have a hidden fear about the long term side effects of the drugs being used in the treatment of ADHD.