Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

(Endorsed, April 2020)

The updated guideline, ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents, was developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and endorsed by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Key Recommendations

• Any child 4 through 18 years of age who presents with academic or behavioral problems and symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity should be evaluated for ADHD.

•  The diagnosis of ADHD should be based on the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5^th edition, with information obtained from parents/guardians, teachers, and other school and mental health clinicians involved in the child’s care.

• Alteative causes of the behavior should be ruled out.

• A child being evaluated for ADHD should also be assessed for other conditions that might coexist with ADHD, including emotional, behavioral, developmental, and physical conditions.

• Children with ADHD should be managed following the principles of the chronic care model and the Medical Home.

• Preschool-aged children (4-5 years of age) should be treated with behavior therapy as the first line of treatment. Methylphenidate may be prescribed if the behavior interventions do not provide significant improvement and there is moderate-to-severe continuing disturbance in the child’s function.

• Elementary school-aged children (6-11 years of age) should be treated with FDA-approved medications for ADHD and /or behavioral therapy.

• Adolescents (12-18 years of age) should be treated with FDA-approved medications, with assent, for ADHD and may be treated with behavioral therapy.

• Medication doses should be titrated to achieve maximum benefit with minimum adverse effects.

• Co-morbid conditions should be diagnosed and managed appropriately. 

Access the article with full recommendation for more information on ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents.

Ryan Gorji MD
Dr Ryan Gorji
Ryan Gorji Chicago

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