Neurochemistry Theory Of Adhd

The Neurochemistry theory of ADHD is scientific and evidence-based. Pharmacological studies are the strongest evidence of this theory (Himelstein, Newcorn, & Halperin, 2000). Pharmacological studies indicate that medications which work on the dominergic, noradrenergic, and serotinergic pathways improve ADHD symptoms in many patients. However, there are some limitations with the Neurochemistry theory. There are not many studies that show central measures of neurotransmitter functioning in patients with ADHD. Studies involving peripheral measures of neurotransmitter functioning show inconsistent findings in catecholamine metabolites. This could be due to the questionable relationship between peripheral neurotransmitter measures and central

In fact, it is the opposite. The theories discussed previously are suggested to cause the neurotransmitter dysfunction in the brain. People at risk for ADHD are identified according to their individual genetics and environmental circumstances. Also, ADHD is diagnosed based on the individual’s symptoms, not on neurotransmitter functionality. If technology existed to non invasively measure central neurotransmitter function, then a more accurate prediction could be made about who is at risk for developing ADHD. Treatment could then be geared toward prevention and management of symptoms before they became a

The information now known about various neurotransmitter dysfunction in the disease is used to assist providers in selecting medication for their patients. Children with ADHD have been shown to improve with several types of medications, including stimulants, SNRIs, SSRIs, and TCAs (Cortese, 2012). If one of these medications is unsuccessful in treating symptoms, then another medication can be selected. To date, there is no cure for ADHD when using the Neurochemistry theory as a basis. Therefore, management of neurotransmitter dysfunction, which manifests itself in attention deficit and/or hyperactive symptoms, is the current treatment in the medical field. The patients’ perspective and needs are addressed in Neurochemistry theory, but with limitations. Parents may be relieved to hear that according to Neurochemistry theory, symptoms of ADHD are caused by altered brain chemistry instead of their particular child rearing practices. Commercials and websites for ADHD medications attempt to explain how these medications work on chemicals in the brain. However, it would be difficult to expect a child and caregiver to understand this complicated concept if they have no prior medical