title: Psychopharmacological treatment of ADHD symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder.
abstract: One of the most frequently reported behavioral concerns among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is high rates of activity and inattention, symptoms that are often associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although there is a considerable body of research regarding the appropriate treatment of ADHD symptoms among typically developing children, the research among children with ASD is more limited. The evidence to date suggests that medication response rates among children with ASD are considerably lower than among typically developing children and that children with ASD tend to be at greater risk for experiencing side effects. The purpose of the present paper is to review the available research on the treatment of ADHD symptoms in children with ASD. This paper summarizes the data on a range of pharmacological options and provides specific recommendations for how best to clinically manage these symptoms.
authors.affiliation: Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15203, USA. handenbl@upmc.edu
authors.forename: Benjamin L
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Handen
authors.forename: Johanna
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: Rameshwari
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Tumuluru
mesh_terms: D058647:Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000150:complications*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011437:Propylamines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D058647:Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride