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Common ADHD Questions

1. What is ADHD?

ADHD is a condition of the brain that makes it difficult for children to focus, pay attention, and control their behavior. ADHD is a real and treatable medical condition that affects 5 million children in the United States. ADHD is not a reflection of a child´s intelligence or poor parenting skills.

2. Could my child really have ADHD?

ADHD is a condition that causes a child to display a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactive/impulsive behavior that is more frequent and more severe than other children of similar age. Talk to your child’s healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis.

3. Is there a cure for ADHD?

There´s no cure for ADHD, but research is ongoing to learn more about the role of the brain in ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD can be effectively managed with treatments like CONCERTA® as part of a total treatment program including medication and behavioral therapy.

4. Will my child outgrow ADHD?

ADHD continues into adolescence and adulthood in many cases. About 80 percent of children who need medication for ADHD still need it as teenagers. But, a total treatment program including medication and behavioral therapy can help your child manage his or her ADHD symptoms.

5. Are there special educational rights for children with ADHD?

Yes. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are laws that have been enacted to ensure that children with disabilities, including ADHD, receive an appropriate education. Visit www.chadd.org for more information about educational support.

6. Is there value to continue ADHD treatment during school breaks?

ADHD doesn´t just affect your child at school. It can affect your child´s social interactions as well. Your child should continue taking ADHD medication as long as his or her symptoms are present. Some experts agree that ADHD medication is most effective when used on an everyday basis to encourage healthy habits of planning and discipline.

7. What are the benefits of treatment with CONCERTA®?

CONCERTA® is a once-a-day prescription medication that can help your child focus at school and at home.

8. What are the CONCERTA® dosage strengths?

CONCERTA® is available in 3 dosage strengths for children and adolescents: 18-, 36- and 54-mg tablets. Children are typically started on a dose of 18 mg per day. CONCERTA® is approved for doses up to 54-mg in children and 72mg (two 36-mg tablets) in adolescents. Your child´s doctor may adjust your child's dose to effectively manage ADHD symptoms and possible side effects. CONCERTA® has not been studied in children under age 6.

9. How can I help my child get the most out of CONCERTA®?

The combination of modifying behavior along with taking medication is a comprehensive approach to managing ADHD. It's known as a "Total Treatment Program." Developing and implementing a total treatment program for a child with ADHD has been proven to be beneficial in managing ADHD symptoms, and it may help you and your child see success with managing ADHD.

10. What are the side effects of CONCERTA®?

CONCERTA® has been used for the treatment of ADHD for over 10 years. The most common side effect in children and adolescents with ADHD treated with CONCERTA® is upper abdominal pain. Please see Important Safety Information below and speak with your child's physician if you have additional questions.

Related links: Signs & Symptoms of ADHD   Treatment with CONCERTA®  What to Expect from CONCERTA®

CONCERTA® is a prescription product approved for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as part of a total treatment program that may include counseling or other therapies.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Talk to your healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Only a healthcare professional can decide whether medication is right for you or your child.

CONCERTA® should not be taken by patients who have: allergies to methylphenidate or other ingredients in CONCERTA® significant anxiety, tension, or agitation; glaucoma; tics, Tourette's syndrome, or family history of Tourette's syndrome; current or past use of monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI); esophagus, stomach, or intestinal narrowing. Children under 6 years of age should not take CONCERTA®.

Abuse of methylphenidate may lead to dependence. Tell your healthcare professional if you or your child has had problems with alcohol or drugs; has had any heart problems, heart defects, high blood pressure, or a family history of these problems; has had depression, abnormal thoughts or visions, bipolar disorder, or seizure. Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you or your child: develops abnormal thinking or hallucinations, abnormal or extreme moods and/or excessive activity; or if aggressive behavior or hostility develops or worsens while taking CONCERTA®. Your child's healthcare professional should check height and weight often and may interrupt CONCERTA® treatment if your child is not growing or gaining weight as expected.

Stimulants may impair the ability of the patient to operate potentially hazardous machinery or vehicles. Caution should be used accordingly until you are reasonably certain that CONCERTA® does not adversely affect your ability to engage in such activities.

The most common adverse reaction (>5%) reported in children and adolescents was upper abdominal pain. The most common adverse reactions (>10%) reported in adults were dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, headache, and insomnia.

CONCERTA® and OROS® are registered trademarks of ALZA Corporation

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This site is published by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which is solely responsible for its contents. This site and its contents are intended for USA audiences only.