ADHD

Question 1

What brain structures are involved in ADHD?

Answer 1

Frontal cortex, basal ganglia, and the reticular activating system (RAS)

Question 2

At what age is ADHD symptom onset?

Answer 2

Symptoms were present before age 12

Question 3

Key neurotransmitters involved in ADHD?

Answer 3

Dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin

Question 4

First line meds for ADHD?

Answer 4

Stimulants (amphetamines and methylphenidate)

Question 5

What needs to be assessed before starting a stimulant medication?

Answer 5

Cardiac history

Question 6

What age is amphetamine FDA approved for?

Answer 6

ages 3+

Question 7

What age is methylphenidate FDA approved for?

Answer 7

ages 6+

Question 8

Non-stimulant ADHD medications?

Answer 8

Guanfacine, Clonidine, Straterra

Question 9

What should the PMHNP do if side effects of ADHD medication become unbearable or the patient begins to develop tics?

Answer 9

Discontinue the medication and try a non-stimulant

Question 10

Guanfacine, Clonidine, Straterra are all FDA approved for what age?

Answer 10

ages 6+

Question 11

Public domain scale used for ADHD?

Answer 11

Vanderbilt ADHD scale

Question 12

ADHD stimulant side effects?

Answer 12

Increased HR, BP, heart attack and stroke

Question 13

Signs of stimulant abuse

Answer 13

insomnia, tremors, increased BP and HR, heart palpitation, agitation, irritability