& Family Support Centre
Medication
Medication is considered to be the most effective single form of therapy for ADD/ADHD.
The most commonly used medications are stimulant medications, Methylphenidate (Ritalin) and Dexamphetamine (required Ministry of Health approval).
These stimulants are not new and have become more widely used since 1950. They enhance the ability to select, focus and shut out distraction. This allows a chance to think before acting.
There is also a second line of newer non stimulant medication, known as Atomoxetine (Strattera), which is also now registered in New Zealand and available from Eli Lilly free for one month and $170 monthly thereafter depending on dosage.
There may be opportunities for children on Atomoxetine to also be recipients of the New Zealand Child Disability Allowance with the ability to considerably reduce the medication costs.
There has been extensive medication research, which has consistently shown up to an 80% improvement in children, teenagers and adults with ADD/ADHD.
It is important that the appropriate medication for a patient is properly prescribed through medical specialists (Paediatricians, Psychiatrists) and General Practitioners (GPs).
For further information feel welcome to contact the ADD Assessment and Family Support Centre:
Phone: 04 383 5061 |
Fax: 04 383 5063 | Email: addtrust@xtra.co.nz |