This makes drug holidays less popular than they used to be.
Pros and Cons of ADHD Drug Holidays
There are pros and cons to taking a drug holiday.
If you’re considering this approach, it’s important that the benefits outweigh the risks.
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Whatever you decide, always consult the child’s healthcare provider before making any medication changes.
This can be problematic.
But there are other negative effects of drug holidays as well.
Remember that ADHD isn’t usually just a school problem.
There may be another option that is better for them, depending on the issues they are experiencing.
The provider may be able to adjust the dosage or switch medications to ease these effects.
This makes ADHD drug holidays unnecessary, enabling your child to take their medication every day without issues.
Mornings and Evenings
Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) andother stimulant medicationscan interfere with sleep.
One way to ensure this occurs is for them to take their medicine in the morning.
If sleep is still an issue, a third option is to trynon-stimulant ADHD medications.
Discuss any ADHD medication-related concerns with your child’s pediatrician to help find the best medicine for your child.
Do not give your child an extra dose without talking to their healthcare provider first.
This can help them sort out the issues in the safest, most effective way.
American Psychological Association Dictionary of Psychology.Drug holiday.
Ibrahim K, Donyai P.Drug holidays from ADHD medication: International experience over the past four decades.J Atten Disord.
2019;144(4):e20192528.
doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2528
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.Time for a medication vacation?
June 21, 2018.
