Pharmacological management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Pharmacotherapy is the most common intervention for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stimulant medications are highly efficacious and are the gold-standard for treating the inattention, impulsivity and excessive motoric activity associated with ADHD. Methylphenidate and amphetamine-based stimulants are now available in longer-acting, once-daily and shorter-acting divided dosing schedules. Several nonstimulant, second-line treatments are now available or under development for the treatment of ADHD in children and adults. This article reviews the support for a variety of pharmacological agents and the issues to be considered when selecting an agent. The authors conclude that there is a need for additional direct comparisons between the longer-acting agents to effectively guide the practicing clinician.
Reeves
Gloria
G
University of Maryland School of Medicine, Division of Child Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, 701 W. Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
Schweitzer
Julie
J
D000316:Adrenergic alpha-Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000662:Amphetamines / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016642:Bupropion / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D003000:Clonidine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016316:Guanfacine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011437:Propylamines / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000316:Adrenergic alpha-Agonists; D000662:Amphetamines; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D011437:Propylamines; D016642:Bupropion; D008774:Methylphenidate; D016316:Guanfacine; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D003000:Clonidine