Pediatric attention-deficit disorder (ADHD) impacts a significant percentage of the population world-wide. Pharmacologic treatments have been shown to be safe and effective for managing symptoms. Various medication formulations exist, and new medication agents are continually approved each year.
This article offers an overview of ADHD, an overview of both stimulant and non-stimulant medication options as well an overview of stimulant misuse. It explores the medication mechanisms of action and side effect profiles, as well as offering an in-depth summary of the novel agents recently approved and soon to-be approved for use in youth. PubMed and Medline were utilized. Search terms included children, adolescents, ADHD and medication. FDA package inserts were reviewed for all medications.
New formulations of medications include an evening administered, extended, and delayed-release form of methylphenidate (DR/ER MPH) a methylphenidate pro-drug (serdexmethylphenidate) and an amphetamine patch. The availability of a new SNRI (selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor), viloxazine-extended release (VER) and the pending approval of a triple reuptake inhibitor (centanafadine) provide welcome additions to the prescriber’s toolbox.
