The role of pharmacotherapy and managed care pharmacy interventions in the treatment of ADHD.
Pharmacotherapy plays a primary role in the management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), despite the availability of effective behavioral interventions. Psychostimulants are the most commonly prescribed form of pharmacotherapy for patients with ADHD and their benefits in managed care are severalfold, leading not only to symptom resolution and improved quality of life for patients, but also reduced costs for payers and purchasers. The use of these agents requires careful consideration and management by health plan stakeholders for optimal effectiveness. Concerns regarding medication adherence, in addition to the potential for diversion and abuse of psychostimulants, highlight the importance of effective pharmacotherapy management in patients with ADHD. Initiatives promoting medication adherence, such as patient/parent education, provider follow-up, and adverse effect management, are crucial for ensuring treatment success. Once-daily, extended-release formulations of stimulants may also contribute to improving medication adherence, as may managed care pharmacy interventions such as pharmacy database monitoring.
Dopheide
Julie A
JA
Psychiatry and the Behavioral Sciences, University of Southern California, Schools of Pharmacy and Medicine, 1985 Zonal Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA. dopheide@pharmacy.usc.edu
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003913:Dextroamphetamine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008329:Managed Care Programs; D055118:Medication Adherence; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011437:Propylamines / Q000627:therapeutic use
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D011437:Propylamines; D008774:Methylphenidate; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D003913:Dextroamphetamine