Clinical practice guidelines for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a review.
The prevalence and public health importance of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as its impact on public health has led various groups to develop clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Clinical practice guidelines are systematically developed statements designed to assist practitioner and patient decisions about appropriate health care for specific clinical circumstances. In this article, we review 9 CPGs, including their development process, the recommendation of specific clinical actions, and advocacy of recommendations based on limited evidence. Despite the differences between these CPGs for ADHD, they appear to be complementary and not inconsistent. The CPGs all recommend: a structured approach to diagnosis and treatment; attention to psychiatric comorbidity and other ADHD-related conflicts during an individual's lifespan; consideration of medication (usually stimulants) and psychosocial therapies; and follow-up and monitoring of patient response. A patient-centered approach is also recommended in the evaluation and treatment of ADHD, although it is less evidence based than recommended therapies.
Bukstein
Oscar G
OG
Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3811 O'Hara St., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. buksteinog@upmc.edu
D000316:Adrenergic alpha-Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D006801:Humans; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011613:Psychotherapy
D000316:Adrenergic alpha-Agonists; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations