This Article Full Text (PDF) References Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Citation Map Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Request Permissions Request Reprints Add to My Marked Citations Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Citing Articles via Scopus Google Scholar Articles by Laird, L. K. Articles by Saklad, J. J. Search for Related Content Social Bookmarking                   What's this?

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Clinical Pharmacy, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78284

Judith J. Saklad

From the Southwest Neuropsychiatric Institute, San Antonio State School, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common of the childhood psychiatric disorders, with a prevalence rate of up to 20%, and is probably genetically transmitted. ADHD is characterized by impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, and decreased attention span. It is often extremely disruptive to the afflicted individuals social interactions and school performance. Therapeutic approaches to ADHD should be multimodal, including medications, family, and educational therapies. The pathophysiology of ADHD is not yet fully understood. Catecholoamines are believed to play a significant role with serotonin in an adjunctive role. Pathophysiological theories are supported by useful drug therapies that are known to affect dopamine and norepinephrine metabolism. Stimulants remain the drugs of choice, with methylphenidate most commonly used. Dextroamphetamine and pemoline are also effective. The rational use of these drugs is discussed. Antidepressants are second-line drug therapies; their usefulness is most apparent in patients who have high levels of anxiety and/or depression. Other potentially useful medications, including clonidine and the antipsychotics, are discussed. Adult populations can also express ADHD; treatment is similar to that used in children. Overall, ADHD is an important illness with significant morbidity. Pharmacotherapy is highly effective for its treatment and forms the cornerstone of therapy. This review of ADHD seeks to promote a greater understanding of this disorder and its appropriate drug therapy.

Journal of Pharmacy Practice, Vol. 3, No. 4, 241-251 (1990)
DOI: 10.1177/089719009000300406


CiteULike    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Digg    Reddit    Technorati    What's this?