Background and aims Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder generally characterised by inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, hyperactivity. Medication does not cure ADHD, but it is used to control the symptoms.

The goal of the study was to determine the impact of pharmacologic treatment on symptoms control in ADHD paediatric patients.

Methods The efficacy of pharmacologic treatment was assessed in 82 children patients of 5–12 years old diagnosed with ADHD. 33 patients received treatment with atomoxetine, 26 patients underwent treatment with methylphenidate and 23 patients weren’t receiving pharmacological treatment (control group). The ADHD symptoms were screened with parent-rated Child Symptom Inventory-4 (CSI-4) scale at first visit to the doctor and three months after.

Results CSI-4 scale scores were statistically analysed. Between-subjects analysis taking as factor the treatment group highlighted a statistical significant difference (p < 0.001) between the two time points (baseline and 3 months after) which corresponds to an improvement of the disease symptoms.

Conclusions Pharmacologic treatment significantly reduced the ADHD symptoms in children on the basis of parent-rate CSI-4 scoring. Medication doesn’t cure, but it has positive impact in the management of ADHD syndrome.