Complementary therapies for the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children: a scoping review

Objective: to map the scientific literature regarding complementary therapies used by health professionals for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Method: this scoping review was based on the recommendations proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Five data sources were searched. Inclusion criteria comprised articles published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese; children aged one to nine years diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, regardless of additional age ranges covered; and no restrictions on publication date, study design, or bibliographic type. Therapies were grouped into four categories: mind-body therapies, supplementation, herbal therapy, and dietary therapy.

Results: a total of 1,444 publications were identified, with 133 peer-reviewed articles selected for analysis. Sixty-five complementary therapies were identified, with neurofeedback (n=38) being the most frequently cited mind-body therapy. Other interventions included a prevalence of polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation (n=14), Ginkgo biloba use (n=6) in phytotherapy, and oligo-antigenic diet (n=5) in dietary therapy.

Conclusion: complementary therapies show potential for alleviating symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in childhood. However, some therapies still lack scientific validation, highlighting the need for targeted experimental studies to ensure safe and effective use.

Descriptors:
Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity; Complementary Therapies; Child; Infant; Child Health; Health Personnel

Highlights:

(1) Several complementary therapies are used to control ADHD in children. (2) Complementary therapies can improve the core symptoms of ADHD. (3) More research should be conducted to ensure the efficacy of the therapies. (4) A professional approach to ADHD is individualized and holistic. (5) The health professional is responsible for health education and ADHD monitoring.