The role of complementary and alternative medicine in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

J Dev Behav Pediatr. 2002 Feb;23(1 Suppl):S37-45. doi: 10.1097/00004703-200202001-00007.

Abstract

The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in pediatrics has become widespread. Parents of young children with developmental and behavioral problems such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are particularly drawn to CAM interventions to avoid or decrease use of psychotropic medications. This paper reviews the epidemiology of CAM use for ADHD, describes a conceptual model of CAM, discusses a variety of commonly used therapies for ADHD, and introduces a systematic, pragmatic approach to discussing CAM therapy use with parents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / therapy*
  • Child
  • Complementary Therapies / methods*
  • Energy Metabolism / physiology
  • Humans
  • Life Style
  • Mind-Body Therapies / methods