ADHD Management: Essential Warning Signs and Red Flags

Key Indicators That Require Medical Attention

Medication-Related Warning Signs

• Significant mood changes
  • Unusual irritability or aggression
  • Persistent sadness or anxiety
  • Emotional flatness or personality changes
• Physical symptoms
  • Severe headaches
  • Concerning heart palpitations
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Sleep disturbances lasting >2 weeks

Behavioral Red Flags

• Academic/Work Performance
  • Sudden decline in grades or work quality
  • Increased disciplinary issues
  • Complete disengagement from tasks
• Social Changes
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • New high-risk behaviors
  • Aggressive outbursts

Treatment Effectiveness Issues

• Medication seems ineffective
  • Symptoms return to pre-treatment levels
  • Increased difficulty with focus and organization
  • Medication wearing off too quickly
• Side effects becoming problematic
  • Appetite changes affecting health
  • Sleep patterns severely disrupted
  • Anxiety or nervousness interfering with daily life

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

• Symptoms worsen significantly
• New concerning behaviors emerge
• Side effects become unmanageable
• Current treatment plan seems ineffective
• Development of any new health conditions

Prevention and Monitoring

• Keep regular appointments
• Maintain symptom diary
• Track medication effectiveness
• Document side effects
• Monitor sleep and eating patterns