Adult ADHD: A Brief Review

Abstract

In the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the psychiatrist may consider both stimulants and non-stimulant medications; in addition, there are some over the counter substances and adjunct medications that may be helpful in mitigation or resolution of symptoms. Behavioral, environmental and psychosocial approaches should be instituted in association with pharmacology and extra caution and conservatism should be used in patients under the age of 18 years and those diagnosed with Substance Use Disorders or Bipolar Disorder. When making clinical decisions, it is important to consider use of both immediate release and sustained release stimulant preparations, in addition to consideration of first line, second line and adjunct agents. It has been long recognized that the prominent central nervous system neurochemicals intimately involved with ADHD symptoms affect dopamine and/or norepinephrine receptor systems. Many consider ADHD to be largely a childhood condition, although there is evidence for two-thirds of patients to continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.