Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: a guide for the primary care physician.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adulthood in up to 60% of cases with childhood onset. A childhood history of ADHD is a prerequisite for making the ADHD diagnosis in an adult. The Utah, Copeland, and Brown self-rating scales are useful in helping the primary care physician confirm the diagnosis. A thorough developmental history, a substance abuse history, and a medical and neurologic examination should be obtained to rule out other causes of poor concentration and attention. Medication interventions can include the stimulants and/or noradrenergic and dopaminergic antidepressants. Nonmedication intervention should include education, referral to support groups, and referral for individual and/or couples therapy. If the diagnosis is unclear or if there is inadequate response to an intervention, referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist is indicated.
Elliott
Hal
H
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
D000328:Adult; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015897:Comorbidity; D003376:Counseling; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011613:Psychotherapy; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012944:Social Support
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors