Diagnostic assessment is complete and confirms diagnosis of ADHD |
Child is age 4 years or older* |
Caregivers accept medication as a contribution to management |
School will cooperate in administration and monitoring¶ |
No previous sensitivity to the chosen medication |
Child has normal heart rate and blood pressure |
Child has no known cardiac risk factors |
Child does not have a significant comorbid condition such as seizures, tics, depression, or anxietyΔ |
Substance abuse and stimulant misuse/diversion among household members are not a concern (for children who will be treated with immediate-release stimulants)◊ |
ADHD: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
* Primary care clinicians may wish to consult a specialist for medication management of children age 4 to 5 years.
¶ It is not safe to permit the child or adolescent to take their own medication to school.
Δ Primary care clinicians may wish to consult with a specialist for management of children with ADHD complicated by comorbid conditions.
◊ Nonstimulants, osmotic release methylphenidate, the methylphenidate patch, and prodrug stimulant formulations are alternatives to immediate-release or more easily abusable stimulant preparations for children who live in households where substance abuse, diversion, and misuse are a concern.Adapted from: Hill T, Taylor E. An auditable protocol for treating attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Arch Dis Child 2001; 84:404.
Updated with information from:Do you want to add Medilib to your home screen?