Neurofeedback or Medication (Ritalin, Concerta or Strattera)?

Medication or neurofeedback?
Medication (such as Ritalin, Concerta or Strattera) is often prescribed due to its effectiveness and its well known results. Neurofeedback is fairly new in the psychiatric field and therefore rather unknown with practitioners.

We have summarised the advantages and disadvantages for both Neurofeedback and Medication for you.

The advantages of neurofeedback Treatment of ADHD symptoms without medication A long-term and sustained effect by operant conditioning No unpleasant side effects Improvement of attention, ability to concentrate and sleep A one time only investment

The disadvantages of neurofeedback Effective after 30 to 50 treatments Costs aren't always covered by health insurance Motivation is necessary in order to make the treatment effective Effective for 70% -80%

Advantages of medication Quick effect Easy access

The disadvantages of medication Medication often needs to be taken for life Medication is always to be taken at the same time of day, which can be difficult to remember The effect is temporary Rebound phenomena Finding the appropriate medication such as Ritalin, Concerta or Strattera can be a process of trial and error Costs aren't always compensated by health insurance, especially for the newer medications. Many side effects, including addiction to medication, depression, the emergence of tics, cardiovascular problems, inhibition of growth and shrinkage of the brain.

Extra risks of medication There are known cases where ADHD-medication has been linked with patient death and a higher risk of suicide. This was recently reported by the American FDA.