Adult ADHD: evaluation and treatment in family medicine

Am Fam Physician. 2000 Nov 1;62(9):2077-86, 2091-2.

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 30 to 50 percent of adults who had ADHD in childhood. Accurate diagnosis of ADHD in adults is challenging and requires attention to early development and symptoms of inattention, distractibility, impulsivity and emotional lability. Diagnosis is further complicated by the overlap between the symptoms of adult ADHD and the symptoms of other common psychiatric conditions such as depression and substance abuse. While stimulants are a common treatment for adult patients with ADHD, antidepressants may also be effective. Cognitive-behavioral skills training and psychotherapy are useful adjuncts to pharmacotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / diagnosis*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / therapy*
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Family Practice / methods*
  • Humans
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Primary Health Care / methods*
  • Psychotherapy

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants