Psychopharmacologic Treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Disruptive Behavior Disorders

Abstract

<p>Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder (CD) constitute the most prevalent cluster of child and adolescent psychiatric disorders. ADHD is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that is more severe and more frequent than in youth in similar circumstances at a comparable developmental level. There are three subtypes: predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive, and combined. ODD is a recurrent pattern of negativistic, defiant, disobedient, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that persists for at least 6 months. CD is a repetitive and persistent pattern of violating the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms. In each of the disorders, symptoms are present in more than one setting and cause significant functional impairment — although there may be relative differences in the nature and severity of presentation across settings.</p> <h4>ABOUT THE AUTHORS</h4> <p>Jeffrey H. Newcorn, MD, is Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, and Director, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York. Iliyan Ivanov, MD, is Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine.</p> <p>Address correspondence to: Jeffrey H. Newcorn, MD, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029. </p> <p>Dr. Newcorn has disclosed the following relevant financial relationships: Cortex, Eli Lilly, Lupin, McNeil Pediatrics, Novartis, Pfizer, and Shire: Advisor/consultant; McNeil, Novartis, and Shire: Member of Speaker’s Bureau; and Eli Lilly, McNeil, Novartis, and Shire: Research Grant Recipient. Dr. Ivanov disclosed no relevant financial relationships.</p>