Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate: a new option in stimulant treatment for ADHD.
BACKGROUND
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a prevalent disorder in children and adults, presents a substantial societal burden in both monetary cost and human suffering. Characterized by significant difficulties in maintaining attention, completing tasks, motor control, and appropriate social engagement, the disorder begins early in life and results in significant impairment across domains of functioning, including social, educational, and occupational achievement. The condition also carries heightened risk of substance use and dependence, and criminal activity. Pharmacologic treatment is a key component of ADHD management and has been found to be cost effective and generally well tolerated. However, despite increasing options for medication therapy, community management of ADHD is suboptimal. This review assesses current research on lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX), a relatively recent addition to the range of treatment options.


METHODS
This review summarizes peer-reviewed literature on LDX published 2003 - 2010.


RESULTS
The reader will gain insight into the efficacy and safety of LDX in the treatment of ADHD, and its place in the clinical armamentarium.


CONCLUSIONS
LDX is a useful addition to the formulary, showing similar efficacy and safety profiles to other stimulants.
Dew
Rachel E
RE
Duke University Medical Center, Duke Child and Family Studies Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Durham, NC 27705, USA.
Kollins
Scott H
SH
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003913:Dextroamphetamine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D000069478:Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D000069478:Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate; D003913:Dextroamphetamine