ADHD Glossary

A description and brief explanation of words related to ADHD, ADHD symptoms, medication for ADHD and others.

ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a developmental disorder characterized by hyperactivity, impulsiveness and/or inattention.

Adderall - Adderall is a stimulant drug which contains an amphetamine. It is used to improve attention span and decreases impulsivity.

Amphetamines - Drugs used to stimulate the brain; in children, can be used to treat hyperactivity.

Arthralgia - Neuralgic pain in a joint or joints.

Cylert - (pemoline) is a central nervous system stimulant.

Dexedrine - an amphetamine used as a central nervous system stimulant.

Hyperactivity- Having highly or excessively active behavior.

Hyperkinesis - Hyperactivity, especially in children.

Inattention - failure of person to pay attention; disregard; heedlessness; neglect.

Impulsiveness -Inclined to act on impulse rather than thought.

Insomnia - innability to fall sleep, difficulting sleeping.

Methylin - (methylphenidate HCl) is a mild central nervous system (CNS) stimulant.

Neurological - Having to do with brain function.

Pharmacological - The science of drugs, including their composition, uses, and effects.

Placebo - A pill containing no medication that is given to reinforce a individual's expectation they will feel better. This technique is used to test a drugs effectiveness.

Psychotherapy - The treatment of mental and emotional disorders through the use of psychological techniques.

Ritalin - (methylphenidate hydrochloride) a stimulant medication used to treat Attention Deficit Disorder.

Strattera - is the first non-stimulant medication approved for the treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults.

Section 504 - the law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

Stimulant - a drug that temporarily quickens central nervous system function.

Tics - A habitual spasmodic muscular movement or contraction, usually of the face or extremities.

Urticaria - an itchy skin eruption characterized by weals with pale interiors and well-defined red margins; usually the result of an allergic response to insect bites or food or drugs.

next: Be an Advocate for Your ADHD Child
~ adhd library articles
~ all add/adhd articles