Genetic Determinants of ADHD

Testing That Proves Conclusively Whether or Not Your Child Will Respond Well to Medication?

One of the biggest debates within the ADHD community is whether or not to medicate. Parents sometimes feel pushed by teachers and administrators to medicate their child so that the child will be more manageable in the classroom. Teachers and administrators have an entire classroom to consider when recommending whether or not to medicate a particular student. And after all of the angst that goes into the decision to medicate, parents are often left second-guessing themselves and wondering if they made the right decision. It would be so much easier if a simple scientific test could give parents inside information on whether or not to medicate. While there is still much research to be done, a new study is shedding light on genetic markers that may predict whether or not a child will respond well to pharmacological treatment of ADHD.

The study, led by Stephen V. Faraone at SUNY Upstate Medical Center has shown preliminary promise for determining if an individual is genetically predisposed to respond positively to stimulant medications. The findings thus far indicate that while the efficiency of medicating an individual is tied to genetics, there is no one gene that definitively proves medication will be the best plan of treatment. There is still much research to be done before parents and individuals with the disorder will have definitive answers.

While medication may seem like the best route, there are drawbacks to consider. First, there is no cure for ADHD. Medication treats the symptoms, but it does not cure the disorder itself. There can be drawbacks to treating only the symptoms, especially since the child will always live with the disorder. Because ADHD is a lifelong disorder, learning how to manage the symptoms without medication has many benefits, but there can be some serious drawbacks to not medicating as well. Students without medication tend to have a harder time making friends with their peers and staying on track with class work. It isn’t an easy, clear-cut decision for parents.

As the parent, only you can make the best decision for your child. Empower yourself to make the best decision by staying current on ADHD research and advocating for your child. Don’t feel pressured by school personnel who may mean well, but ultimately have the best interests of the class unit at heart. If you have done your research and made yourself knowledgeable on the topic of ADHD, don’t feel guilty about the tough decision you have made.