Pharmacologic treatment strategies for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Drug therapy is the mainstay of the treatment of adults with ADHD and addresses the core symptoms of the disorder. A successful pharmacological treatment reduces impulsivity, motor hyperactivity and inner restlessness and improves attention. In the United States and some European countries several psychostimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine compounds and the selective norepinephrine transporter inhibitor atomoxetine are approved for adults with ADHD, whereas in Germany adult patients with ADHD still have to be medicated off-label. This overview presents essential results and treatment strategies for drug therapy of adults with ADHD including psychostimulants and atomoxetine as well as second-line agents like tricyclic antidepressants and bupropion.