Pharmacological agents for the treatment of adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A review of the literature

Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been an emerging area of psychiatry of particular interest over the past few years. Whether this attention is due to new medications prompting the issue (ie, Focalin™, Strattera™) or emerging awareness that an estimated 4.4% of adults suffer with this diagnosis, therapy is of a limited selection. Untreated symptoms can lead to several life problems, including work and school difficulties, personal relationship issues, low self-esteem, and an increased chance of tobacco use, alcohol abuse, or other substance abuse. This article is to serve as a general overview of the available information regarding adult ADHD and the pharmacologic therapies available to treat the disorder.