Therapeutical methods


Whichever therapeutic methods are ultimately used in an individual case: A combination of different approaches often seems to be most meaningful ('multimodal approach').

The current standard of care is pharmacotherapy with either the central stimulants methylphenidate (MPH; e.g. Ritalin or Medikinet, each in different forms (direct, partially retarded, delayed) or lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Elvanse), which have a dopaminergic effect, or the norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor atomoxetine hydrochloride (ATX; Strattera), which is not a central stimulant.


The most common psychotherapeutic approach is currently provided by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Systemic and psychoeducative approaches are applied as well.

When pharmaceutical therapy might be indicated needs to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

It is important that any pharmaceutical therapy is considered as one component within an individually composed therapeutic concept.

In contrast, the daily reality of many affected persons may present a different picture: Often the administration of e.g. Ritalin/ MPH is the only received treatment, no further therapeutic measures seem to be scheduled.

Nevertheless, at this point the general 'demonisation' of pharmacotherapeutic approaches which partially reaches conspiracy theory-related dimensions, must be clearly rejected.


In addition to the therapy methods mentioned above there are several complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches.

Furthermore, a possible influence of diet on the development of ADHD-associated symptoms is discussed. To discuss or interpret this aspect in more detail here would go beyond the scope of this page.

If you might have any respective questions, we would be happy to address them in person.


Subsequently, the influence of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) on symptoms associated with ADHD is described.


Furthermore, Chinese Medicine (CM)- and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)-related considerations on ADHD are explained.