Media Centre

September 2008 press releases

25 September

Homeopathy and the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Homeopathy can play a useful part in the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (1) particularly in pre-school age children, research shows.

Amidst concern about the over-use of Ritalin (methylphenidate) for infants, children and adults, new NICE (2) guidelines comprise a treatment plan that includes psychological, behavioural and educational advice and interventions to manage the problem of ADHD (1) rather than the prescription of Ritalin or other drugs.

The NICE guidelines recommend that drug treatment should be reserved only for those patients with severe symptoms and impairment; they specifically state that drugs should not be prescribed for pre-school children.

In 2001, the authors of a clinical trial recommended homeopathy as a useful treatment specifically for ADHD in pre-school children. The study assessed homeopathy’s effectiveness in 115 children with ADHD and aged between 3 and 17 years.

In cases where treatment of a hyperactive child is not urgent, homeopathy was found to be an effective alternative to Ritalin: 75% of the children responded well to homeopathy, averting their need for further use of Ritalin (3).

The BHA (4) commends homeopathy as a safe treatment option in ADHD, especially for children of pre-school age.

For further information : Robert Mathie, Research Development Adviser, BHA on 0870 444 3950

References:

(1) ADHD is a common behavioural disorder in children and young people, estimated to affect up to 3% of school-age children and young people in the UK, and about 2% of adults worldwide. The symptoms of ADHD include: being inattentive (unable to concentrate for very long or finish a task); hyperactivity (fidgety and unable to sit still); and impulsive (speaking without thinking about the consequences).

(2) National Institute for Clinical Excellence National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: Diagnosis and management of ADHD in children, young people and adults. September 2008. http://www.nice.org.uk/Guidance/CG72/Guidance/pdf/English

(3) Frei H, Thurneysen A. Treatment for hyperactive children: homeopathy and methylphenidate compared in a family setting. British Homeopathic Journal 2001; 90: 183-188.

(4) The British Homeopathic Association supports patients who wish to access homeopathy in the NHS. Homeopathy was incorporated into the NHS at its inception in 1948 and is available in primary care and by GP referral at five homeopathic hospitals: Bristol, Glasgow, Liverpool, London and Tunbridge Wells. Homeopathy is delivered by medically-qualified doctors and other health professionals who are members of the Faculty of Homeopathy.