Will Caffeine Help Kids with ADHD?

Drugs are recommended to help children with ADHD, but many families are hoping for alternatives with fewer side effects. Caffeine is a much milder drug than those prescribed, yet some doctors advise against using caffeine with any children. However, since others suggest that it works better than no medication at all, and because some parents have told me caffeine has helped, I’ve passed it along as an option worth investigating.

Recently someone asked if I knew the particulars—how much to use and when—so I searched the Internet. Other than a caution to recognize that body weight is a factor (young children obviously need much less of any drug) and that the amount of caffeine can vary in coffee, I didn’t find anything about dosage. However, I did find a site with lots of testimonials those of you interested in trying caffeine may find helpful. For those of you who have already tried caffeine, consider adding your experience for the benefit of others. http://www.faqfarm.com/Q/What_does_caffeine_do_to_an_ADHD_child

I would also appreciate e-mails from anyone who has tried caffeine with their ADHD child. Did it help? What was the child’s age? The form of caffeine (Coca Cola? Mountain Dew? coffee?) How much did you give and when? Did you experiment on your own or follow the advice of a doctor or health consultant? I would like to be able to share your experiences with families who are struggling. Send emails to Kathryn@designastudy.com. Thanks!