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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder should be recognized as a chronic condition. A longterm treatment plan for children and adolescents with ADHD should be developed as for other children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder treatments can be effective for preschoolers through adolescents, but different considerations should be applied to children of different ages. Management of CYSHCN should follow the principles of the chronic care model and the medical home, which will be discussed below.
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Pediatricians should prescribe medications for ADHD approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and/or scientifically sound parent- and/or teacher-administered behavior therapy as treatment for ADHD. Recommendations regarding the school environment, program, or placement may be part of the treatment.
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When medications are part of a treatment plan, clinicians should adjust doses of an FDA-approved medication for ADHD to achieve maximum benefit with minimum side-effects
