An update on attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. (cover story)

PSYCHIATRIC diagnosis; METHYLPHENIDATE; CENTRAL nervous system stimulants; ADRENERGIC uptake inhibitors; AMERICAN Academy of Pediatrics; ATTENTION-deficit hyperactivity disorder; BEHAVIOR therapy; DRUG therapy; CONTROLLED release preparations; CLASSIFICATION of mental disorders; PEDIATRICS; SYMPTOMS; THERAPEUTICS

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral disorder in children. Recent guideline changes from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend evaluating and diagnosing children ages 4 to 18 years. Medication therapy for ADHD has been shown to decrease ¡mpulsivity and hyperactivity and to increase attention in children. Stimulants continue to be recommended as first-line treatment for children ages 6 to 12, and 70% of children respond to therapy with any single stimulant chosen. Nonstimulants are now available and offer a treatment option for children who do not respond to stimulants. Adverse events such as growth suppression and cardiovascular risk are of concern to patients and caregivers, but recommendations for management have been made in the AAP guidelines and in the European guidelines on managing adverse effects of medications for ADHD. New formulations of stimulants and nonstimulants allow for individualization of therapy for patients to receive the maximum benefit while minimizing side effects. (Formulary. 2013;48:98-109.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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