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Pediatric Drugs

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01-02-2013 | Current Opinion

Pharmacologic Intervention for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Preschoolers

Is It Justified?

Authors: Jaswinder K. Ghuman, Harinder S. Ghuman

Published in: Pediatric Drugs | Issue 1/2013

Abstract

Pharmacologic intervention for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in preschool children is a controversial issue. Non-pharmacologic interventions (psychosocial and restricted dietary interventions) have been shown to benefit oppositional, non-compliant, aggressive and disruptive, as well as hyperactive and inattentive behaviors in preschoolers with ADHD and other disruptive behavior disorders. However, not all families have access to non-pharmacologic interventions or prefer them. The Preschool ADHD Treatment Study recently provided evidence of benefit with immediate-release methylphenidate; however, effect sizes were small to moderate and preschoolers had a high rate of adverse effects and a unique adverse effect profile. Furthermore, no information is available about long-term safety and effects of psychopharmacologic agents on the rapidly developing brains of preschoolers. Based on current evidence and guidelines, a careful trial with psychopharmacologic agents is indicated to treat ADHD in preschoolers if there is no improvement with behavior therapy and the preschoolers continue to exhibit significantly impaired hyperactive and inattentive symptoms. Preschoolers should be monitored closely for adverse effects and tried off medications after 6 months to assess the need for ongoing psychopharmacologic intervention. Further research is needed to identify predictors and moderators of response to guide individualized/optimal treatment options for ADHD in preschoolers.

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Title: Pharmacologic Intervention for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Preschoolers
Is It Justified?
Authors: Jaswinder K. Ghuman
Harinder S. Ghuman
Publication date: 01-02-2013
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG
Published in: Pediatric Drugs / Issue 1/2013
Print ISSN: 1174-5878
Electronic ISSN: 1179-2019
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40272-012-0001-5

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Pharmacologic Intervention for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Preschoolers

Is It Justified?

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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