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Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Driving: Why and How to Manage It

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Abstract

Driving is a complex task that can be a significant challenge for individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A slight lapse in attention or inhibition while driving (not uncommon in individuals with ADHD) can result in hazardous consequences for these individuals and their families. This is also an interesting clinical scenario for the treating physician, who is always trying to optimize the various treatment options for the patient. Despite such potentially perilous consequences for society, this subject only recently has received researchers’ attention. This review paper highlights the psychological differences between drivers with and without ADHD and examines differences between these groups in various driving simulation models. Research updates involving pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions are discussed at length. Although the long-term effects of such interventions may not be clearly defined, there is enough evidence to suggest the public health significance of such interventions for optimally managing adult symptoms of ADHD.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Quyen Nichols for his assistance in identifying and confirming references and assistance in editing this manuscript. Shire Development provided funding to Complete Healthcare Communications for editorial assistance with this manuscript. Under the direction of the authors, Maryann Travaglini, PharmD, of Complete Healthcare Communications provided editorial assistance in the form of formatting, copy editing, and summarizing references for this publication.

Disclosure

Dr. Daniel J. Cox has received grant support from Shire.

Dr. Madaan has served as a consultant for Avanir Pharmaceuticals and the NOW Coalition for Bipolar Disorder.

Brian S. Cox reported no potential conflicts of interest relevant to this article.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA

    Daniel J. Cox & Vishal Madaan

  2. Texas Transportation Institute, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA

    Brian S. Cox

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  1. Daniel J. Cox
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  2. Vishal Madaan
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  3. Brian S. Cox
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Correspondence to Daniel J. Cox.

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Cox, D.J., Madaan, V. & Cox, B.S. Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Driving: Why and How to Manage It. Curr Psychiatry Rep 13, 345–350 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-011-0216-0

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