Kinda Ibrahim1, Parastou Donyai2. 1. University of Reading, UK. 2. University of Reading, UK p.donyai@reading.ac.uk.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: ADHD is managed by stimulants that are effective but can cause growth retardation. Prescribers should ideally monitor children and trial a "drug holiday" to enable catch-up growth. Our aim was to map the experience of drug holidays from ADHD medication in children and adolescents. METHOD: A comprehensive search of the literature identified 22 studies published during the period 1972 to 2013. RESULTS: Drug holidays are prevalent in 25% to 70% of families and are more likely to be exercised during school holidays. They test whether medication is still needed and are also considered for managing medication side effects and drug tolerance. The impact of drug holidays was reported in terms of side effects and ADHD symptoms. There was evidence of a positive impact on child growth with longer breaks from medication, and shorter breaks could reduce insomnia and improve appetite. CONCLUSION: Drug holidays from ADHD medication could be a useful tool with multiple purposes: assessment, management, prevention, and negotiation.
OBJECTIVE:ADHD is managed by stimulants that are effective but can cause growth retardation. Prescribers should ideally monitor children and trial a "drug holiday" to enable catch-up growth. Our aim was to map the experience of drug holidays from ADHD medication in children and adolescents. METHOD: A comprehensive search of the literature identified 22 studies published during the period 1972 to 2013. RESULTS: Drug holidays are prevalent in 25% to 70% of families and are more likely to be exercised during school holidays. They test whether medication is still needed and are also considered for managing medication side effects and drug tolerance. The impact of drug holidays was reported in terms of side effects and ADHD symptoms. There was evidence of a positive impact on child growth with longer breaks from medication, and shorter breaks could reduce insomnia and improve appetite. CONCLUSION: Drug holidays from ADHD medication could be a useful tool with multiple purposes: assessment, management, prevention, and negotiation.
Authors: Elizabeth LeBlond; Julia Smith-Paine; Jacqlyn J Riemersma; Paul S Horn; Shari L Wade; Brad G Kurowski Journal: J Int Neuropsychol Soc Date: 2019-08 Impact factor: 2.892
Authors: James G Waxmonsky; William E Pelham; Adriana Campa; Daniel A Waschbusch; Tan Li; Rebecca Marshall; Lysett Babocsai; Hugh Humphery; Elizabeth Gnagy; James Swanson; Tomasz Hanć; Negar Fallahazad; William E Pelham Journal: J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry Date: 2019-08-29 Impact factor: 8.829