stimulants exam 2

At roughly what age is ADHD typically diagnosed?

Around age 7

ADHD is best described as one of the most common ___ disorders in children.

Neurodevelopmental

How does the childhood diagnosis rate compare between boys and girls?

Boys diagnosed about 2-3x more often

What does longitudinal research suggest about ADHD persisting into adulthood?

Roughly half or more continue to have impairing symptoms

Which symptom domain tends to decrease with age, while others persist?

Hyperactivity

According to DSM-5, several ADHD symptoms must be present before what age?

age 12

What is the standard approach to treating ADHD?

Behavioral therapy and/or medication, often combined

Which set lists the three ADHD presentations?

Inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, combined

What is Adderall (and Adderall XR)?

A mixture of D- and L-amphetamine salts

Which set lists common side effects of amphetamine stimulants?

Decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia, nervousness, tachycardia, increased BP

What should be monitored in a child on stimulant therapy?

Weight, height/growth, heart rate, and blood pressure

Ritalin is the brand name for which drug?

Methylphenidate

What is the rationale (and caveat) for 'drug holidays' with stimulants?

They may reduce growth and appetite effects and help reassess need, but symptoms return during breaks and the practice is debated

What is the guidance on stopping stimulant medication?

Avoid abrupt discontinuation; taper under supervision

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is approved for which conditions?

ADHD and binge eating disorder

Which condition can stimulants trigger or worsen through peripheral vasculopathy?

Raynaud's phenomenon

Nursing Notes: Stimulants

• Avoid caffeine
• Monitor growth and weight
• Assess for cardiovascular side effects
• Consult with the child’s teachers for correct
scheduling and progress
• Assess for psychiatric symptoms
• Avoid giving in late afternoon due to insomnia

atomoxetine (Strattera)

Indicated for children older than 6 and adultsWarning for suicidal thinking and erectile dysfunctionIncreased HR and BP

Clonidine and guanfacine (Intuniv)

Stimulate alpha-2 receptorsAlso indicated for BPDrowsiness, Dizziness, Dry MouthAvoid abrupt withdrawalIntuniv is for ages 6-17