Management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: focus on methylphenidate hydrochloride

Review

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Authors: Rajasree Nair, Shannon B Moss

Published Date August 2009 Volume 2009:5 Pages 421 - 432

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/NDT.S4101

Rajasree Nair, Shannon B Moss

Baylor Family Medicine Residency at Garland, Garland, Texas, USA

Abstract: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders in young adults and causes significant psychosocial impairment and economic burden to society. Because of the paucity of long-term evidence and lack of national guidelines for diagnosis and management of adult ADHD, most of the data are based on experience derived from management of childhood ADHD. This article reviews the current evidence for the diagnosis and management of adult ADHD with special emphasis on the role of methylphenidate hydrochloride preparations in its treatment. Methylphenidate hydrochloride, a stimulant that acts through the dopaminergic and adrenergic pathways, has shown more than 75% efficacy in controlling the symptoms of adult ADHD. Although concern for diversion of the drug exists, recent data have shown benefits in preventing substance use disorders in patients with adult ADHD.

Keywords: adult ADHD, treatment, stimulants, methylphenidate hydrochloride