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Pharmacotherapy for ADHD in children and adolescents: A summary and overview of different European guidelines

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A Correction to this article was published on 26 January 2024

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Abstract

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder presenting to pediatric services, and pediatricians are often involved in the early assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of children with ADHD. The treatment of ADHD typically involves a multimodal approach that encompasses a combination of psychoeducation, parent/teacher training, psychosocial/psychotherapeutic interventions, and pharmacotherapy. Concerning pharmacotherapy, guidelines vary in drug choice and sequencing, with psychostimulants, such as methylphenidate and (lis)dexamfetamine, generally being the favored initial treatment. Alternatives include atomoxetine and guanfacine. Pharmacotherapy has been proven effective, but close follow-up focusing on physical growth, cardiovascular monitoring, and the surveillance of potential side effects including tics, mood fluctuations, and psychotic symptoms, is essential. This paper presents an overview of current pharmacological treatment options for ADHD and explores disparities in treatment guidelines across different European countries.

   Conclusion: Pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents are effective and generally well-tolerated. Pharmacotherapy for ADHD is always part of a multimodal approach. While there is a considerable consensus among European guidelines on pharmacotherapy for ADHD, notable differences exist, particularly concerning the selection and sequencing of various medications.

What is Known:

• There is a significant base of evidence for pharmacological treatment for ADHD in children and adolescents.

• Pediatricians are often involved in assessment, diagnosis and management of children with ADHD.

What is New:

• Our overview of different European guidelines reveals significant agreement in the context of pharmacotherapy for ADHD in children and adolescents.

• Discrepancies exist primarily in terms of selection and sequencing of different medications.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium

    L. Van Vyve

  2. Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

    B. Dierckx & B. C. P. Koch

  3. Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore

    C. G. Lim

  4. UPC KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium

    M. Danckaerts

  5. Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit, Mannheim, Germany

    A. Häge & T. Banaschewski

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  1. L. Van Vyve
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L.V.V. and B.D. wrote the manuscript. All other authors reviewed and revised the manuscript.

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Communicated by Peter de Winter

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Van Vyve, L., Dierckx, B., Lim, C.G. et al. Pharmacotherapy for ADHD in children and adolescents: A summary and overview of different European guidelines. Eur J Pediatr 183, 1047–1056 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-023-05370-w

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