Clinical practice pathways for evaluation and medication choice for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in autism spectrum disorders

Clinical practice pathways for evaluation and medication choice for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in autism spectrum disorders

Authors
Mahajan, R. Bernal, M. P. Panzer, R. Whitaker, A. Roberts, W. Handen, B. Hardan, A. Anagnostou, E. Veenstra-Vander Weele, J.
Year
2012
Journal
Pediatrics
Volume
130
Pages
S125-S138
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention (referred to as "ADHD [attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder] symptoms") occur in 41% to 78% of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). These symptoms often affect quality of life, interfering with learning or interventions that target primary ASD symptoms. This practice pathway describes the guidelines for evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents with ASD and comorbid ADHD symptoms. METHODS: Current research in this area is limited, and, therefore, these recommendations are based on a systematic literature review and expert consensus in the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network Psychopharmacology Committee. RESULTS: The recommended practice pathway includes the Symptom Evaluation Pathway for systematic assessment of ADHD symptoms across settings; examination for comorbid sleep, medical, or psychiatric comorbidities that may contribute to symptoms; and evaluation of behavioral interventions that may ameliorate these symptoms. For children for whom medication is being considered to target the ADHD symptoms, the medication choice pathway provides guidance on the selection of the appropriate agent based on a review of available research, assessment of specific advantages and disadvantages of each agent, and dosing considerations. CONCLUSIONS: These recommendations provide a framework for primary care providers treating children who have ASD and ADHD symptoms. Our systematic review of the current evidence indicates the need for more randomized controlled trials of the medications for ADHD symptoms in ASD. There will also be a need for studies of the effectiveness of these practice pathways in the future. Copyright © 2012 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Oversett med Google Translate
-
Type of intervention

Treatment and Child Welfare Interventions

Topic

Mental Health Problems and Disorders

ADHD

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Intervention

Pharmacological Treatment

Stimulants

Antipsychotics

Antiepileptics

Age group

Preschool Aged Children (3-5 years)

School Aged Children (6-12 years)

Adolescents (13-18 years)

Age not specified

More information
Looking for more information on this topic? Click on the links below to search PsykTestBarn and Håndboka