Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders among school-aged children.
It is highly symptomatic and associated with significant impairment. This review examines the role of stimulant medications
in the treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD. Published clinical studies that compared methylphenidate- and amfetamine-based
stimulants in children and adolescents with ADHD support the therapeutic utility of stimulant treatments, and suggest robust
efficacy and acceptable safety outcomes in groups treated with either stimulant. Evidence-based guidelines agree that each
patient with ADHD is unique and individual treatment strategies that incorporate both drug and non-drug treatment options
should be sought. In seeking to optimize individual response and outcomes to stimulant therapy, important considerations include
the selection of stimulant class, the choice of long- or short-acting stimulant formulations, addressing effectively any emergent
adverse effects and strategies aimed at enhancing adherence to dosing regimen and persistence on therapy.
It is highly symptomatic and associated with significant impairment. This review examines the role of stimulant medications
in the treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD. Published clinical studies that compared methylphenidate- and amfetamine-based
stimulants in children and adolescents with ADHD support the therapeutic utility of stimulant treatments, and suggest robust
efficacy and acceptable safety outcomes in groups treated with either stimulant. Evidence-based guidelines agree that each
patient with ADHD is unique and individual treatment strategies that incorporate both drug and non-drug treatment options
should be sought. In seeking to optimize individual response and outcomes to stimulant therapy, important considerations include
the selection of stimulant class, the choice of long- or short-acting stimulant formulations, addressing effectively any emergent
adverse effects and strategies aimed at enhancing adherence to dosing regimen and persistence on therapy.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Review
- Pages 1-16
- DOI 10.1007/s00787-012-0286-5
- Authors
- Paul Hodgkins, Shire Pharmaceuticals, 725 Chesterbrook Boulevard, Wayne, PA 19087, USA
- Monica Shaw, Norgine Pharmaceuticals, Uxbridge, UK
- David Coghill, Centre for Neuroscience Division of Medical Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Lily Hechtman, Division of Child Psychiatry, McGill University, McGill University Health Center, Montreal Children’s Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Journal European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Online ISSN 1435-165X
- Print ISSN 1018-8827