What is the primary treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

The primary treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is stimulant medications. Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, have strong empirical support for their effectiveness in reducing ADHD symptoms. These medications work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, primarily dopamine and norepinephrine, which help improve attention, focus, and impulse control.

While behavioral therapy is also an important component of a comprehensive treatment approach, especially for children, it is often used in conjunction with pharmacotherapy rather than as a standalone treatment. Antidepressants may be utilized in cases where individuals have co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety but are not the first line of treatment for ADHD itself. Herbal supplements lack robust scientific evidence supporting their efficacy in managing ADHD symptoms and are not considered standard treatment. Thus, stimulant medications remain the cornerstone of ADHD management due to their proven track record in effectively alleviating the core symptoms associated with the disorder.