Students with ADHD who used medication improved their scores in both math and reading, according to a study published this week in Pediatrics.   The improvements were equivalent to about 0.19 grade levels in math and 0.29 grade levels in reading.

The report indicates that medication made less of a difference for students with an IEP (Individualized Education Program).  I wonder if this means that special education works, and may make medication less necessary.

Approximately 4.4 million (7.8%) children in the United States have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and 56% of affected children take prescription medications to treat the disorder.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is strongly linked with low academic achievement.   This study suggests that children with ADHD may benefit academically from medication and special education.  You may request your school to conduct an educational evaluation to determine if your child qualifies for special education.