Your parents have been advised to give your little brother methylphenidate (Ritalin) as treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). What advice would you give them?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ritalin can improve behavior in children with ADHD, but it can also produce significant side effects such as decreased appetite, sleep problems, and irritability. It's important for parents to proceed with caution and monitor their child's response to the medication. Additionally, ensuring that the diagnosis of ADHD is correct is crucial as Ritalin has no effect on behavior unless the child actually has the disorder. Option A is incorrect as Ritalin has been shown to produce improvements in behavior in children with ADHD. Option B is partially correct but incomplete, as it is important to ensure that the diagnosis of ADHD is correct before starting treatment with Ritalin. Option D is not recommended as coffee and Ritalin are different substances with different effects, and a positive response to coffee does not necessarily indicate a positive response to Ritalin.

Your Parents Have Been Advised to Give Your Little Brother