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Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults

  • Published:
Annals of Clinical Psychiatry

Abstract

ADHD/ADD, once thought to occur only in children, is now recognized as continuing into adulthood in many people. In order to be labeled as such, signs and symptoms must start before age 7 and are primarily characterized by inattention, distractibility, and impulsiveness. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, a number of associated neurochemical and structural abnormalities have been observed. This disorder can negatively affect the educational, social, and occupational lives of those who suffer from its symptoms. It interferes with the ability to establish and maintain close relationships. Pharmacotherapy remains the primary mode of treatment. Stimulants such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate are the main drugs utilized; they are available in immediate and longer duration versions. Bupropion is another important medicinal option, and there are a variety of other miscellaneous medications to consider, including modafinil, venlafaxine, tricyclic antidepressants, and guanfacine. Psychotherapy is shown to help control impulsiveness, form more satisfactory relationships, rear children more effectively, and improve organizational and problem-solving skills.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Veterans Affairs, Mental Health, and Behavioral Science Service, Louisville, Kentucky

    Raymond Pary, Susan Lewis, Paul R. Matuschka & Peter Rudzinskiy

  2. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky

    Raymond Pary, Mohammad Safi & Steven Lippmann

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  1. Raymond Pary
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  2. Susan Lewis
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  5. Mohammad Safi
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Pary, R., Lewis, S., Matuschka, P.R. et al. Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults. Ann Clin Psychiatry 14, 105–111 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1016807021779

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