Ask the Pharmacist

Children with ADHD, which product helps reduce cholesterol?

Good morning, my almost 10-year-old girl was found to have a cholesterol of 252. She is currently on sertraline and haloperidol for an OCD and oxybutynin and minirin because she has incontinence. Unfortunately, these are the aftermath of her premature birth at 26 weeks (0.700 grams and brain hemorrhage). In addition to OCD, she has also been diagnosed with ADHD. I would like to know if there is a supplement that can help her reduce her cholesterol level to go along with a healthy physical and dietary lifestyle.





Dear Maria Cristina, 


given the age of the child, for cholesterol control I think it is good to focus on an appropriate diet combined with physical exercise. To counteract the rise in cholesterol in addition to reducing fats and foods with a high glycemic index, which, by causing a rapid rise in blood sugar, induce a release of insulin that stimulates the production of cholesterol by the liver. 


I therefore advise you to limit in your child's diet the consumption of refined carbohydrates (white pasta, white bread, white rice, sweets) and instead prefer whole grains, fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in fiber and slow-release starches that are absorbed slowly and keep insulin levels constant. 


As a nutritional support in cases of ADHD and to improve the lipid profile, I recommend that you consider, in consultation with your daughter's attending physicians, using the product VitaDHA liquid in single-dose vials. In fact, children with ADHD often show a deficiency of omega-3 DHA, a fatty acid that performs very important structural functions in the nervous system and retina. Therefore, as a rule, children with ADHD benefit from taking DHA. 


Regarding dosage, I recommend that you start with 1 vial of VitaDHA every other day for a period of at least 2 weeks and then switch to 1 vial per day, expecting a period of at least 2 months as the duration of supplementation. The product can be taken as is from the vial itself or poured onto a teaspoon because it has no fishy smell/flavor and is lemon flavored, or it can be added to white or fruit yogurt, spreadable cheese or smoothies. I recommend that you also have your physicians view the product information sheet. I remain available for further information. 


Sincerely, 


Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist