Based on the case, identify pharmacologic and/or nonpharmacologic treatments you would recommend. Provide support from a scholarly source to support your decision.
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It's important to remember that personalized treatment plans are crucial, and close monitoring is beneficial. The systematic review by Catala-Lopez et al. on the pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for ADHD in children and adolescents encompasses an extensive analysis of 190 studies. The review deduced that behavioral therapy was the sole non-pharmacological intervention with a statistically significant impact on ADHD management (Nazarova et al., 2022). Among pharmacological treatments, stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine were deemed most effective, while non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, guanfacine, and clonidine were viewed as secondary options (Nazarova et al., 2022). Additionally, the review indicated that the therapeutic effects of behavioral therapy were enhanced when used in conjunction with stimulants (Nazarova et al., 2022). It is important to remember that individualized treatment plans are essential, and close monitoring helps.
Medication choice: Methylphenidate IMMEDIATE-RELEASE (IR):
Initial dose: 5 mg orally twice a day (before breakfast and lunch)
- Increase dose gradually in increments of 5 to 10 mg per week; individualize dose according to needs and response of patient. Close monitoring is needed. Follow up in 2 weeks.
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Maximum dose: 60 mg/day
Education: Take as prescribed and don't abruptly stop medication. Report all symptoms after starting medications.