Researchers find that individualized treatment for ADHD could reduce aggressive behavior

By Staff Writer

A more methodical approach to prescribing stimulant medication can help reduce aggressive behavior in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a recent study reveals.

According to PsychCentral.com, researchers from Stony Brook University School of Medicine discovered that a combination of intensive stimulant therapy and behavioral treatment may serve as a better option than administering antipsychotic medications, some of which may carry negative side effects.

The research team studied 65 children who were between the ages of 6 and 13, and approximately 49 percent of the children were less aggressive following the treatment. Aside from behavioral therapy, the kids were given tailored doses of stimulant medication based on their individual needs.

According to a recent report written by an experienced pediatrician and published in the Huffington Post, more than 4 million children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ADHD or attention deficit disorder. The doctor said about 2.5 million kids are being prescribed Ritalin or another long-term prescription.

He said that while some children may require medication, he warned that many cases of aggressive behavior can be treated with non-pharmaceutical treatments.