Clinical Recognition and Management of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Adults with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are a new phenomenon to many health care providers. While increasing evidence indicates children with ADD/ADHD can have persistent problems into adulthood, the significance and management of these disorders for adults are poorly understood. Studies of adults are confounded by frequent comorbidity with other conditions and by retrospective diagnosis of childhood ADD/ADHD. Research studies of pharmacologic interventions do not indicate a clear pattern of efficacy and safety for any drug class. Pharmacologic treatment of adults with ADD/ADHD is often guided by clinical experience. Efficacy of treat…