What Is ADHD?
 

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. It is associated with differences in brain development and regulation.

What Causes ADHD?

ADHD is influenced by:
 

• Genetics

• Brain development

• Neurobiological factors

• Environmental influences

What Are the Symptoms

Inattention symptoms may include:
 

• Difficulty sustaining attention

• Forgetfulness

• Difficulty organizing tasks

• Losing items frequently

• Trouble completing projects

• Avoiding tasks requiring prolonged concentration

Hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms may include:
 

• Restlessness

• Difficulty sitting still

• Excessive talking

• Interrupting others

• Difficulty waiting

• Acting without considering consequences

How Is ADHD Diagnosed?
 

Diagnosis, by the DSM-5-TR, generally requires:
 

• A certain number of symptoms (differs by age) of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity

• Symptoms beginning before age 12

• Symptoms persisting for at least 6 months

• Symptoms occurring in more than one setting (social settings, school, home, work, etc.)

• Symptoms causing impairment in functioning

• Symptoms not better explained by another condition
   

Diagnostics:
 

• History and physical

• Screening tools (advised for parents and teachers to complete too)

• Possibly evaluating for conditions that may may cause or contribute to similar symptoms, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies, other psychiatric disorders, thyroid disorders, and more. 
   

Common Treatments

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• Behavioral therapy for children and parent training programs

• Medication

• Sometimes cognitive-behavioral therapy, for adolescents and adults
   

                                                          Common Medications
 

Methylphenidate stimulants - (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin)
 

Amphetamine stimulants - (Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine)

Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors - Atomoxetine (Strattera)
 

Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists - Guanfacine ER (Intuniv), Clonidine ER (Kapvay)
 

Norepinephrine reuptake Inhibitor w/ Serotonin modulation - Viloxazine ER (Qelbree)

How Loria Mobile Medicine Can Help

Accurate & Comprehensive Diagnosis - I first perform a thorough evaluation to identify underlying causes and rule out conditions that frequently mimic or worsen symptoms, such as thyroid imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, sleep disorders, or anxiety. Then, I use diagnostic criteria to ensure an appropriate diagnosis. 

Safe & Informative Management - I ensure you can make informed decisions by explaining medication costs and coverage, potential side effects, boxed warnings such as the risk of stimulant abuse, misuse, and addiction, as well as important cardiovascular and psychiatric risks. I also evaluate for relative and absolute contraindications—such as pre-existing heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, history of substance use disorder, active psychosis or mania, hyperthyroidism, or glaucoma—to keep your treatment plan safe. A urine drug screening may be performed before starting stimulants. Definitive drug confirmation with LC-MS/MS/GC-MS testing may also be used. 

 

                                                                          References & Guidelines
 

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Diagnosis and Treatment.

• American Psychiatric Association (APA). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR): Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Prescription Stimulant Drug Safety Communications and Prescribing Information.