Researchers in New York say that ADHD medications such as Ritalin and Adderall may have a placebo effect, but not on children--on caregivers. A review of studies suggests that teachers, parents, and others may "see" improvements in a child's behavior if they believe the child is on medication to control ADHD symptoms, even when real medication is not being given. Researchers say caregivers may exhibit more understanding, which could in turn actually lead to improved behavior in a child. The study's authors say the effect can be both good and bad. It can imrove a caregiver, child relationship, but it may also lead parents to increase a child's medication dose because they believe it works.
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