ADHD treatment

Stimulants are effective medications and should be used as one of the main pharmacological options for the management of ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. They all inhibit catecholamine uptake, but they differ for specific aspects of the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, as well as on efficacy for specific patients. Short-term efficacy in reducing ADHD symptoms is well established, as is the safety profile for these agents. There is increasing evidence that ADHD symptom improvement generally translates or corresponds to improved functioning and quality of life. Stimulant treatment should be based on a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis, including full medical history and physical examination, and it should always be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychological, behavioural, and educational advice and interventions. Medication treatment should be closely monitored for both common and unusual (but potentially serious) adverse events.