Related | Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Screening, Referral and Treatment - Pediatric - Ambulatory
1
Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD): Screening, Referral and Treatment –
Pediatric – Ambulatory
Clinical Practice Guideline
Note: Active Table of Contents – Click each header below to jump to the section of interest
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................3
SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................3
Overview of Pediatric ADHD (ages 4-17 years) ................................................................................................ 4
RECOMMENDATIONS .........................................................................................................................5
Presentation and Screening .............................................................................................................................. 5
Clinical Evaluation ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Comorbid and/or Confounding Disorders ............................................................................................................. 7
Using a rating scale to evaluate symptoms .......................................................................................................... 8
Provide Treatment ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Treatment Recommendations by Age ................................................................................................................... 9
Behavioral Therapy ............................................................................................................................................. 10
Vocational/Educational Accommodations .......................................................................................................... 10
Medication Therapy ........................................................................................................................................ 11
Complementary and Alternative Therapies (CAT) .......................................................................................... 12
Follow-Up Care ............................................................................................................................................... 12
METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................................................... 14
COLLATERAL TOOLS & RESOURCES ................................................................................................... 16
APPENDIX A. DSM-5 DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA ...................................................................................... 18
APPENDIX B. PEDIATRIC ADHD TREATMENT – STIMULANT MEDICATIONS ......................................... 20
APPENDIX C. PEDIATRIC ADHD TREATMENT – NON-STIMULANT MEDICATIONS ................................. 23
APPENDIX D. PEDIATRIC ADHD MEDICATION ALGORITHM ................................................................ 25
APPENDIX E. ADHD HEDIS MEASURE ................................................................................................ 26
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................... 27
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2
Content Expert(s):
Name: Timothy Chybowski, MD – Pediatrics
Phone Number: (608) 287-2580
Email Address: timothy.chybowski@uwmf.wisc.edu
Name: Julie Gocey, MD – Pediatrics
Phone Number: (608) 828-7602
Email Address: julie.gocey@uwmf.wisc.edu
Contact for Changes:
Center for Clinical Knowledge Management (CCKM)
Email Address: CCKM@uwhealth.org
Reviewer(s):
Manika Bhateja, MD – Pediatrics (Swedish American)
Jessica Uftring, BSN, RN – Pediatrics
Kristine Moses, RN, BSN – Pediatrics
Erri Hewitt, PhD – Psychology
Joshua Vanderloo, PharmD – Drug Policy Program
Philip Trapskin, PharmD – Drug Policy Program
Diana Renken, PharmD – Center for Clinical Knowledge Management
Katherine Le, PharmD – Center for Clinical Knowledge Management
Committee Approval:
Clinical Knowledge Management (CKM) Council (07/23/18)
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3
Introduction
ADHD is a condition which extends across developmental phases and may extend into
adulthood. Core symptoms include hyperactivity, impulsivity, and distractibility resulting in
academic, occupational, social, and personal underachievement. While the strongest risk factor
is genetic predisposition, the presentation and severity of the disorder results from complex
interactions among genetic, psychosocial, environmental, and biologic factors.1 ADHD is a
common behavioral diagnosis in primary care with substantial burden in terms of number of
visits, cost of medication, behavioral management and additional service costs (e.g., injury
costs).2,3 Diagnosis of ADHD requires evaluation of behavior across multiple settings,
consideration of alternative causes, and possible comorbidities. A multimodal management
plan, involving family, healthcare professionals, and school professionals, is essential. Early
recognition, diagnostic accuracy, and optimal management, which includes family and
educational support, contribute to improved short and long-term functioning for both the child
and his or her family.4,5
This guideline is meant to address the care of children ages 4 – 17 years and is primarily based
on the 2007 American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and 2011 American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines for ADHD.
Consider referral for further evaluation to Behavioral Health (Pediatric Psychiatry or
Psychology), Developmental Pediatrics, and/or Neurology for children younger than 4 years
who present with significant behavior problems that are atypical for the child’s developmental
level. For patients aged 18 years and older, refer to the recommendations within UW Health
ADHD – Adult - Ambulatory Clinical Practice Guideline..
Scope
Intended User(s): Primary Care Physicians, Advanced Practice Providers, Psychiatrists,
Psychologists, Pharmacists, Nurses
Objective(s): To provide evidence-based recommendations that support clinical decision
making during developmental surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric patients with
ADHD
Target Population: Children (age 4-10 years) and adolescent (age 11-17 years) patients.
Clinical Questions Considered:
• What symptoms/conditions must be met when diagnosing ADHD in a child?
• Which medications can be used to treat ADHD in children?
• How soon should a patient be seen for follow-up after a new ADHD diagnosis?
• What are some interventions that can be used to offset side effects from ADHD stimulant
therapy?
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4
Overview of Pediatric ADHD (ages 4-17 years)
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5
Recommendations
Presentation and Screening
The primary care clinician should initiate an evaluation for ADHD for any child 4-18 years of age
who presents with academic or behavioral problems and symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity,
or impulsivity.4 (AAP Quality of evidence B, strong recommendation) For children younger than 4
years who present with behavior problems inconsistent with developmental level, consider
referral to a specialist for further evaluation (i.e., Behavioral Health or Neurology.)
Parents/guardians (or anyone representing the patient such as a non-parent relative, other
caregiver, or school nurse) may request evaluation for ADHD because of their own concerns or
at the suggestion of a teacher, therapist, or other caregiver. Table 1 lists behaviors consistent
with ADHD if they are present often or very often in a manner that is atypical for developmental
level, and result in functional impairment in more than one aspect of daily life.
Table 1. Behaviors that may be consistent with ADHD6
A child with ADHD might:
• daydream a lot
• forget or lose things a lot
• squirm or fidget
• talk too much, interrupt others
• make careless mistakes or take unnecessary
risks
• have a hard time resisting temptation
• act without thinking
• have trouble taking turns
• have difficulty getting along with others
• avoid task that require focus
See Appendix A for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)
criteria for ADHD.
Clinical Evaluation
To make a diagnosis of ADHD, the primary care clinician should determine that Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria have been met, including
documentation of impairment in more than 1 major setting (see Appendix A). Information
should be obtained primarily from reports from parents or guardians, teachers, and any other
school and mental health clinicians involved in the child’s care. The primary care clinician
should also rule out any alternative cause(s).4 (AAP Quality of evidence B, strong recommendation)
Initial evaluations can usually be done in the primary care office, reserving referrals to Pediatric
Psychiatry, Developmental Pediatrics, or Behavioral Pediatrics for those situations where the
diagnosis is uncertain, or family situation is complicated. (see Table 2) Evaluation should
consist of clinical interviews with the parent/guardian and patient, obtaining information about
the patient’s daytime functioning (i.e., school or daycare), evaluation for comorbid psychiatric
disorders, and review of the patient’s medical, social, and family histories. Data collection prior
to a clinic visit is typically helpful, and more than one visit may be needed to perform the entire
clinical assessment (e.g., parents/guardians may come without patient/child).
History of Present Illness
• The history of present illness should include a thorough description of the behaviors of
concern, including age of onset, duration, and degree of functional impairment.5 The location
and circumstances in which the behaviors occur should be assessed, as well as what
interventions have been tried.
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• Behaviors should be considered within the context of normal developmental variation,
individual temperament, and parental/guardian expectations.
Past Medical History
• Past medical history should include any prenatal, birth, or childhood medical insults (e.g.,
seizures, head trauma, stroke, encephalitis, maternal smoking, prenatal exposures, chronic
ear infections, premature or difficult birth, etc.) which could contribute to the behavioral
concerns.
• Information from other clinicians including behavioral health and medical
specialists/providers should be reviewed.
Family history
• Children with ADHD often have a positive family history for ADHD and associated concerns,
such as conduct disorders, learning problems, mood and/or anxiety disorders.7-9
• Substance abuse can be a consequence of inadequate treatment or undiagnosed ADHD in
adults.10,11 Having family members or caregivers with alcohol and other drug issues is a risk
for medication diversion. Consider evaluation for drug-seeking behavior with multiple
pharmacies or multiple prescribers by reviewing prescription data through the Wisconsin
Prescription Drug Monitoring Program and/or the Illinois Prescription Monitoring Program.
• A family history of sudden death or early cardiac problems should prompt review prior to
initiating stimulant medication. Electrocardiography (ECG) may be considered prior to using
stimulant therapy if indicated by risk factors determined by family or individual history or
during review of systems.12-16 (UW Health Moderate quality evidence, conditional
recommendation)
Social History
• It is important to assess the patient’s current living arrangement. Chaotic home situations
(including parenting patterns) can produce behavior problems like ADHD or make ADHD
treatment more difficult.
• Significant stressors, including family disruption (e.g., divorce, frequent moves, significant
losses), history of abuse or neglect, and parental mental health should be assessed.17-19
• Lifestyle factors, such as sleep patterns, screen time exposure, exercise habits, and
structured home life/schedules should also be assessed.20-23
History of Educational Issues
• Clinicians should inquire whether behaviors occur in specific classes or at certain times of
the day, when considering the likelihood of a learning disorder.
• It is helpful to review results from any school-based evaluations and to consider any special
help or classroom accommodations that have been provided to the patient.
• Report cards can be used to document performance as well as behavioral concerns.
• Attendance problems should be considered as they can indicate school avoidance due to
anxiety, physical problems, or chaotic parenting.
Physical Exam
A physical exam, including review of systems, should be performed as part of the initial
evaluation for ADHD if the patient has not had a Well Child Visit within the previous year. (UW
Health Very low quality evidence, Strong recommendation)
Vision or hearing deficits, sleep inadequacy, migraines, pica, or lead poisoning can all contribute
to difficulty in function. Vision and hearing screening or lab work (such as lead screening,
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complete blood count (CBC), ferritin, TSH) may be considered if indicated. (UW Health Moderate
quality evidence, conditional recommendation) However, if a patient’s medical history is
unremarkable, laboratory testing or neurological testing is not indicated.5 (UW Health Very low
quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Comorbid and/or Confounding Disorders
ADHD is a clinical diagnosis made after consideration of other disorders which can also cause
hyperactivity or inattentive behaviors. The primary care clinician should assess for other
conditions that might coexist with ADHD, including emotional or behavioral (e.g., anxiety,
depressive, oppositional defiant, and conduct disorders), developmental (e.g., learning and
language disorders or other neurodevelopmental disorders), and physical (e.g., tics, sleep
apnea, absence seizures) conditions.4 (AAP Quality of evidence B, strong recommendation)
Some other comorbid and/or confounding disorders that can cause symptoms of hyperactivity or
inattentiveness include the following and are described in greater detail below:
• Normal developmental variation or unrealistic parental/guardian or school expectations
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Affective disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety)
• Oppositional defiant/intermittent explosive/ conduct disorder
• Sequela of abuse/trauma
• Developmental disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Undiagnosed cognitive or learning disorder
• Sleep disorders
• Sensory processing disorders
• Substance abuse
Psychiatric evaluation is indicated for concern regarding any significant psychiatric or mood
disorder. For patients undergoing evaluation for other psychologic dysfunctions in addition to
ADHD, it may be appropriate to use a different rating scale with broader scope of assessment in
lieu of or in addition to the Vanderbilt. (UW Health Low quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Patients from families with histories of or with ongoing abuse, high stress levels and/or
dysfunctional parenting may benefit from a referral to Behavioral Health. (UW Health Low quality
evidence, conditional recommendation)
ADHD symptoms can mask core symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Examples of
overlapping symptoms include becoming easily distracted, often not seeming to listen when
spoken to, avoidance/reluctance to do certain activities (behavioral rigidity), having
conversational deficits like interrupting and talking excessively, having trouble waiting his/her
turn, often fidgeting (may not be obviously atypical mannerisms), or running and climbing when
inappropriate. It is recommended that a team of experts evaluate a child with co-occurring
symptoms of ADHD and ASD. A referral to a Psychologist, Developmental Pediatrician, or an
Autism treatment center for evaluation is appropriate.24 (UW Health Low quality evidence,
conditional recommendation)
A referral to a center which specializes in interdisciplinary evaluation (e.g., the Waisman Center
in Madison, WI) is appropriate to differentiate complicated cases of behavioral symptoms
related to a range of neurodevelopmental disorders and suspected ASD. The Waisman
Resource Center serves to provide information about community resources to patients and
families. (800-532-3321 or wrc@waisman.wisc.edu )
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Learning disorders are frequently a comorbid or alternative diagnosis. Neuropsychological and
psychological tests should be performed by a specialist if the patient’s history suggests low
general cognitive ability or low achievement in language or mathematics relative to the patient’s
intellectual ability.5 Referral to the school for further evaluation may also be appropriate,
especially if the behaviors are limited to one area of academic functioning, such as math or
reading, or there is concern about comprehension. (UW Health Very low quality evidence,
conditional recommendation) This testing may not be covered by insurance. Patient Relations may
be able to provide information on specific testing agencies, including agencies that provide
training opportunities to graduate students and provide testing at a reduced rate.
Sleep problems are common in children with ADHD. The causes are likely multifactorial and
may include adverse effects of medications used to treat ADHD (See the Medication Treatment
Algorithm), factors intrinsic to ADHD, or comorbid conditions such as oppositional disorder or
mood disorders.25,26 In some cases, sleep disturbances may lead to ADHD-like symptoms.27
Referral for a sleep consultation is recommended for any child with nightly snoring, frequent
sleepwalking or night terrors, significant difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, restless leg
symptoms, or daytime sleepiness in addition to symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention.28,29
(UW Health Moderate quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
In the subset of patients who have symptoms of ADHD in addition to symptoms of a sensory
processing disorder, a referral to Pediatric Occupational Therapy may be considered.4,30 (UW
Health Very low quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Substance abuse can result in similar symptoms to ADHD or can represent a consequence of
inadequate treatment. For assessment of tobacco or alcohol use, reference the UW Health
Tobacco – Pediatric/Adult – Inpatient/Ambulatory Guideline or UW Health Alcohol –
Pediatric/Adult – Ambulatory Guideline. Consider evaluation for drug-seeking behavior with
multiple pharmacies or prescribing providers using the Wisconsin Prescription Drug Monitoring
Program or the Illinois Prescription Monitoring Program.
Using a rating scale to evaluate symptoms
There are many rating scales based on the DSM-5 criteria that can be used for evaluation of
ADHD symptoms. The use of ADHD rating scales for diagnosis and follow up purposes is
historically low.31 Barriers to rating scale completion include both clinic and patient factors.
These barriers (e.g., scale length, evaluator familiarity) may contribute to low usage of rating
scales. The ideal rating scale is validated, has low barriers to completion, includes items that
evaluate for common comorbid conditions (e.g., oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety), and is
easy to use and document in the electronic health record. Use of a consistent tool across
settings and over time is preferred for tracking changes in patient symptoms.
For both initial and ongoing evaluation of ADHD, the preferred rating scale is the National
Institute for Children’s Health Quality (NICHQ )Vanderbilt Assessment Scale (long form) for both
parent/guardian and teacher informant(s) in patients age 4-5 years (UW Health Very low quality,
conditional recommendation), 6-12 years (UW Health Low quality evidence, strong recommendation),
and 13-17 years.4,32 (UW Health Very low quality evidence, conditional recommendation) While
validation studies have been performed on individuals between the ages of 6 and 12 only, these
studies were only for the comparison of normative data. This tool has been widely used in to
collect information required for a DSM-5 diagnosis in children and adolescents within the
published medical literature.33,34
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If a non-UW Health provider (including a school psychologist) initiated an ADHD evaluation
using a rating scale other than the Vanderbilt, the other rating scale (e.g., Connors, SNAP) can
still be used in the diagnosis of ADHD. However, it is recommended to transition to the
Vanderbilt scale for ongoing follow-up per above recommendations. (UW Health Low quality
evidence, conditional recommendation)
When using the NICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale (Teacher Informant), the teacher
informant is ideally a current teacher who has significant contact with the patient. If the
evaluation is taking place over the summer or at the beginning of the school year, the prior
year’s teacher may provide the most valid ratings. Report cards, individualized education
program (IEP) evaluations, teacher notes, assessments from school psychologists, and other
school documentation are valuable data and when available, should also be used in the
evaluation of ADHD.
Obtaining completed rating scales from high school teachers is notoriously difficult. Although
use of both a parent/guardian and teacher informant rating scale is preferred, use of the ADHD
Self-Assessment Scale may be considered in carefully selected older adolescents in lieu of a
teacher informant. It is still essential though to have a completed parent/guardian informant
scale.35,36 (UW Health Very low quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Provide Treatment
Treatment consists of a variety of approaches including family and parenting support,
educational accommodations, behavioral therapy, and medication.
Treatment Recommendations by Age
Children (4-5 years): The first line of treatment should be evidence-based parent/guardian
and/or teacher-administered behavior therapy.4 (AAP Quality of evidence A, strong recommendation)
Providers may prescribe stimulant medication if behavioral interventions do not provide
significant improvement and there is moderate-to-severe continuing disturbance in function.4
(AAP Quality of evidence B, recommendation) In severe cases involving concerns for safety or
personal harm to the patient or others, stimulant medication may be used as first line therapy
with referral to Developmental Pediatrician, Pediatric Psychology, or Pediatric Psychiatry.37-39
(UW Health Moderate quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Initiating stimulant therapy should not be delayed if referral to a specialist is unattainable (e.g.,
regional availability) or cannot occur in a timely fashion. Thus, providers should exercise
discretion and use clinical judgment when starting stimulant therapy in a young patient.
Children (6-11 years): Prescription of FDA-approved medications for ADHD4 (AAP Quality of
evidence A, strong recommendation) and/or evidence-based parent and/or teacher-administered
behavior therapy should be completed for treatment. It is preferred to prescribe both medication
and behavioral therapy.4 (AAP Quality of evidence B, strong recommendation)
Adolescents (12-18 years): FDA-approved medications for ADHD should be prescribed with
patient assent.4 (AAP Quality of evidence A, strong recommendation) Behavioral therapy may be
prescribed, as treatment using both methodologies is preferred.4 (AAP Quality of evidence C,
recommendation)
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Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy includes a broad set of psychosocial interventions, which can occur via
family counseling, parent support groups, self-education, and/or clinician visits. Behavioral
therapy typically includes training parents in techniques intended to shape the child’s behavior
and to improve the child’s ability to regulate his or her own behavior. Examples may include
emotion coaching for preschoolers, positive discipline techniques, social skills training, and
developing routines (i.e., organizational training). Behavioral therapy should be evidence-based
and appropriate to the patient’s age, developmental level, and comorbid conditions. Providers
are encouraged to inquire about behavioral interventions during primary care follow-up visits to
stress their importance and emphasize parental roles in the complete treatment plan.40-45
Vocational/Educational Accommodations
Students with disabilities, including those with ADHD, have legal protections regarding public
education and vocational accommodations. Special services or educational accommodations
are not needed by all students with ADHD; however, it is important for all parents and guardians
to develop a constructive working relationship with their child’s teachers and school.
Between 2011 and 2016, the U.S Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
received more than 16,000 complaints alleging discrimination based on disability in elementary
and secondary education programs, and more than 10 percent involved allegations of
discrimination of students with ADHD. The most common complaints with ADHD experience at
school was that students were not timely and properly evaluated for disability or did not receive
necessary special education or related aids/services. In response, the OCR released guidance
clarifying the obligation of schools to provide students with ADHD equal education opportunity
under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.46 Thus, it is important that all
parents/guardians be informed of the possibilities and process for obtaining a school-based
evaluation to determine eligibility for services. (UW Health Moderate quality evidence, conditional
recommendation)
Special services or educational accommodations are not needed by all students with ADHD;
however, it is important for all patients to develop a constructive working relationship with their
school/university or employer.
If a student is eligible for services through their school, parents and guardians should expect to
work with the school to develop and monitor an educational plan which maximizes the child’s
academic functioning and achievement. Coordination with health care providers is an integral
part of successful educational plans. Additional resources and information may be obtained by
contacting the school psychologist or nurse.
Patient Resources:
• Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DVR)
• Illinois Department of Human Services – Vocational Rehabilitation
• UW-Madison McBurney Disability Resource Center
• Suggest new students go to the university website and search “disability services”
• U.S Department of Education Students with ADHD and Section 504: A Resource
Guide(2016)
• U.S Department of Education Know Your Rights: Students with ADHD (2016)
• U.S Department of Education Identifying and Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder: A Resource for School and Home 2008
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Medication Therapy
Medication therapy is often effective in treating pediatric ADHD.47,48 Medication therapy may
also ameliorate the structural differences observable in the brains of ADHD patients.49-51
Appendix B and Appendix C give medication information including product names, duration of
action, available strengths and common dosing for stimulant and non-stimulant medications.
Appendix D is a medication treatment algorithm that provides an overview on ADHD treatment
by medication and provides strategies for managing some common side effects.
Medication success is based on reduction of target symptoms without problematic side-effects.
When medication therapy is effective, the treatment effect does not persist following
discontinuation. Parents/guardians and patients should be advised that it may take several
attempts to find the most efficacious medication with the least side effects from ADHD
medication.52-54
Consider the following when developing the medication plan (UW Health Very low quality evidence,
conditional recommendation):
• Perform a baseline patient assessment to asses for potential of adverse ADHD medication
effects prior to prescribing drug therapy.
• Medication should be periodically re-evaluated to assess the recurrence of symptoms
related to attention and hyperactivity. When evaluating effectiveness of drug therapy,
consider other components of the treatment plan as well.
o Assess compliance- missed doses are common both at home and school.
o Determine if behavior therapy is being implemented.
o Determine if more educational support is needed.
• If there is a risk of substance abuse or drug diversion either by patient or family members,
non-stimulant preparations or stimulant products with lower abuse potential (i.e.,
lisdexamfetamine) are preferred.
• Consider insurance coverage and costs when prescribing medication. Medication costs can
be a significant barrier to treatment for some families. Consider using generic medication
and/or a referral to Patient Resources.
• All controlled-substances (i.e., stimulants) must be prescribed in accordance with federal
and state laws.
Suggested Resources for Prescribing Controlled Substances (include but are not limited to):
• Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1300-END
https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21cfr/cfr/index.html
• Drug Enforcement Agency Practitioner’s Manual
https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/manuals/pract/
• DEA frequently asked questions, issuance of multiple prescriptions for Schedule II controlled
substances https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/faq/mult_rx_faq.htm
• Wisconsin Uniformed Controlled Substance Act, Chapter 961
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/961
• Wisconsin Administrative Code Phar 8, Requirements for Controlled Substances
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/phar/8
• Wisconsin Administrative Code CSB 4, Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/csb/4
• Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Controlled Substances
https://www.idfpr.com/profs/contsub.asp
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Medication Holidays
“Medication holidays” (i.e., discontinuation of medication use during weekends and summer
break) are generally not recommended. A break from stimulant medication or a reduction in
dosage may be considered for less demanding times or if there are troublesome side effects.
For example, a patient who primarily uses medication for inattention and focusing rather than
impulsivity and hyperactivity may inquire about a medication holiday on weekends. The
decision to continue or discontinue ADHD medication during non-school days should be based
on the individual patient’s needs.54-56 (UW Health Low quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Most children will respond to one or more of the stimulant medications; therefore, consider
referral to Psychiatry or a provider-to-provider consultation for children who do not respond after
several medication trials or who experience severe side effects. (UW Health Very low quality
evidence, conditional recommendation)
Complementary and Alternative Therapies (CAT)
Many families and patients express interest in using complementary and alternative therapies to
treat ADHD. For some, it is because medication and/or behavioral therapies have been
ineffective, while others have concerns about the safety of long-term medication use. Behavioral
therapies may also be difficult to access for some families. Examples of CAT modalities used to
treat ADHD include restricted diets, nutritional supplements, and mind-body therapies such as
meditation, massage, acupuncture, neurofeedback, and working memory training.
Robust evidence to support the effectiveness of CAT therapies is lacking. Some studies show
modest benefit, however many of these studies are not methodologically strong. Due to the
lack of consistent supporting empirical evidence, CAT modalities are not recommended. (UW
Health Low quality evidence, conditional recommendation) Discussion of CAT modalities with families
should include possible harms (e.g., restricted diet), burden on patients and families (e.g.,
financial risk), and understanding patient and family values and interests. Patients and their
families should be encouraged to follow basic healthy lifestyle factors (e.g., structured sleep
schedule, exercise, limited screen time, nutritious diet) which are supported by emerging
literature.20-23 (UW Health Low quality evidence, conditional recommendation)
Follow-Up Care
The primary care clinician should recognize ADHD as a chronic condition and, therefore,
consider children and adolescents with ADHD as children and youth with special health care
needs. Management of children and youth with special health care needs should follow the
principles of the chronic care model and the medical home.4 (AAP Quality of evidence B/strong
recommendation).
Based on UW Health consensus for chronic care management, patients with a new ADHD
diagnosis and a newly prescribed ADHD medication should be seen by a provider (physician or
advanced practice provider) in 2-3 weeks, and have two additional follow up appointments
within the next 9 months. (UW Health Very low quality evidence, conditional recommendation) Follow-
up within this timeframe is a required Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set
(HEDIS) measure. For more information, see Appendix E.
At each follow-up visit clinicians: (UW Health Low quality evidence, conditional recommendation):
• Ask parents/guardians and teacher to complete Vanderbilt rating scale and review results.
• Review target symptoms and home behavior.
• Review school performance including success of educational plan.
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• Monitor for adverse effects to medications, if applicable, including effects on appetite and
sleeping patterns.
• Adjust medication therapy as needed.
• Reinforce the importance of medication adherence. Medication holidays are NOT universally
recommended but may be appropriate based on individual patient needs.
• Reconsider comorbid and/or confounding disorders, particularly when treatment goals are
not achieved.
• Periodic physical assessment including height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure.16,57,58
• Discuss parent/guardian concerns and questions. Review success of parenting strategies
and educational needs.
• Remind parents/guardians that caring for a child with ADHD can be challenging. Determine
if a referral to Patient Resources or elsewhere may be needed for the parent/guardian to
seek evaluation or treatment for possible depression, adult ADHD, or another mental health
concern.
If at any time a provider feels uncomfortable with determining a diagnosis or treating a patient,
or continuing treatment for a patient, referral to a specialist is appropriate.59 Other reasons for
referral are listed in Table 2.
All patients diagnosed with ADHD should be evaluated at least annually by their primary care
provider, including patients who see a psychiatrist or psychologist for ADHD management. (UW
Health Very low quality evidence, strong recommendation)
Table 2. When to Refer to a Specialist59
A provider may refer to specialist if:
• Patient is < 4 years with significant behavior problems inconsistent with
developmental level
• Unclear diagnosis (e.g., complicate case of behavioral symptoms, suspected ASD)
• Multiple comorbid disorders
• Failure to respond to treatment (e.g., failure of methylphenidate and amphetamine)
• Difficulties with side effect management
• Patient presents with first significant symptoms after age ≥ 12 years
Disclaimer
Clinical practice guidelines assist clinicians by providing a framework for the evaluation and
treatment of patients. This guideline outlines the preferred approach for most patients. It is not
intended to replace a clinician’s judgment or to establish a protocol for all patients. It is
understood that some patients will not fit the clinical condition contemplated by a guideline and
that a guideline will rarely establish the only appropriate approach to a problem.
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Methodology
Development Process
Each guideline is reviewed and updated a minimum of every 3 years. All guidelines are
developed using the guiding principles, standard processes, and styling outlined in the UW
Health Clinical Practice Guideline Resource Guide. This includes expectations for workgroup
composition and recruitment strategies, disclosure and management of conflict of interest for
participating workgroup members, literature review techniques, evidence grading resources,
required approval bodies, and suggestions for communication and implementation.
Methods Used to Collect the Evidence:
The following criteria were used by the guideline author(s) and workgroup members to conduct
electronic database searches in the collection of evidence for review.
Literature Sources:
• Electronic database search (e.g., PubMed)
• Databases of systematic reviews (e.g., Cochrane Library)
• Rutter’s Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (2015)
• DSM-5 Handbook of Differential Diagnosis (2014)
Time Period: June 2018 to July 2018
The following is a list of various search terms that were used individually or in combination with
each other for literature searches on PubMed: ADHD, stimulant, medication, pediatric,
methylphenidate, atomoxetine, desipramine.
Methods to Select the Evidence:
Literary sources were selected with the following criteria in thought: English language, subject
age (i.e., pediatric), publication in a MEDLINE core clinical journal and strength of expert opinion
(e.g., professional organization or society).
Methods Used to Formulate the Recommendations:
The workgroup members agreed to adopt recommendations developed by external
organizations and/or created recommendations internally via a consensus process using
discussion of the literature and expert experience/opinion. If issues or controversies arose
where consensus could not be reached, the topic was escalated appropriately per the guiding
principles outlined in the UW Health Clinical Practice Guideline Resource Guide.
Methods Used to Assess the Quality of the Evidence/Strength of the Recommendations:
Recommendations developed by external organizations maintained the evidence grade
assigned within the original source document and were adopted for use at UW Health.
Internally developed recommendations, or those adopted from external sources without an
assigned evidence grade, were evaluated by the guideline workgroup using an algorithm
adapted from the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation
(GRADE) methodology (see Figure 1).
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Figure 1. GRADE Methodology adapted by UW Health
Rating Scheme for the Strength of the Evidence/Recommendations:
GRADE Ranking of Evidence
High We are confident that the effect in the study reflects the actual effect.
Moderate We are quite confident that the effect in the study is close to the true effect, but it is also possible it is substantially different.
Low The true effect may differ significantly from the estimate.
Very Low The true effect is likely to be substantially different from the estimated effect.
GRADE Ratings for Recommendations For or Against Practice
Strong The net benefit of the treatment is clear, patient values and circumstances are unlikely to affect the decision.
Conditional
Recommendation may be conditional upon patient values and
preferences, the resources available, or the setting in which the
intervention will be implemented.
Figure 2. American Academy of Pediatrics Grading Scheme (2011)
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Recognition of Potential Health Care Disparities: Starting in kindergarten, African-American
children and some Latino children are less likely than Caucasian children to be diagnosed with
ADHD. This is despite a similar frequency of ADHD-related behaviors in the classroom. Non-
white children continue to be diagnosed with ADHD at lower rates through eighth grade.60-63 Of
those diagnosed with ADHD, African-American children and adolescents were less likely to
receive methylphenidate than Caucasian children.64-66
Collateral Tools & Resources
The following collateral tools and resources support staff execution and performance of the
evidence-based guideline recommendations in everyday clinical practice.
Metrics
• Percentage of children who had one follow-up visit with a practitioner with prescribing authority
during the 30-day initiation phase.
• Percentage of children, who remained on ADHD medication for at least 210 days and who, in
addition to the visit in the Initiation Phase, had at least 2 additional follow-up visits within 270 days
after the Initiation Phase ended.
Order Sets & Smart Sets
ADD/ADHD [73]
Patient Resources
1. Health Facts For You #7902 What is ADHD?
2. Health Facts For You #7903 ADHD Care Guidelines
3. Health Facts For You #3202 ADHD New Diagnosis Packet
4. Healthwise: ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder): Pediatric
5. Kids Health: What is ADHD? (Parents)
6. Kids Health: ADHD Special Needs Factsheet (Parents)
7. Kids Health: Could ADHD Be Hereditary? (Parents)
8. Kids Health: Does Ritalin Have Side Effects? (Parents)
9. Kids Health: ADHD Medicines (Kids)
10. Kids Health: Word! ADHD (Kids)
11. Kids Health: What is Hyperactivity? (Kids)
12. Kids Health: ADHD Medicines (Teens)
13. Kids Health: ADHD: Tips to Try (Teens)
14. Kids Health: ADHD (Teens)
15. Kids Health: Is My ADHD Medication Affecting My Sleep? (Teens)
16. Health Information: ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
17. Health Information: ADHD and Hyperactivity
18. Health Information: ADHD Medicines: Suicide Warning for Strattera
19. Health Information: ADHD Myths and Facts
20. Health Information: ADHD: Helping Your Child Get the Most From School
21. Health Information: ADHD: Helping Your Child Get Things Done
22. Health Information: Impulsivity and Inattention
23. Health Information: Other Conditions With Similar Symptoms
24. Health Information: Should My Child Take Medicine for ADHD?
25. Health Information: Social Skills Training
26. Health Information: Taking Care for Yourself When Your Child Has ADHD
27. Health Information: ADHD: Tests for Other Disorders
Reporting Workbench Reports
UWOP Pediatric Patients with ADHD [7643988]
My Patients with ADHD [7865026]
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Smart Texts
1. ADHD Initial Eval [16832]
2. ADHD Follow Up And Medication Management Progress Note – Pediatric [74652]
3. ADHD Refill [16818]
4. ADHD Recheck [16831]
5. ADHD Brief Care Plan [74661]
6. PI ADHD Neuropsychology Testing Options [74727]
7. MCHC ADD/ADHD Followup [10421]
8. MCHC ADD PATIENT Instructions English [10429]
9. Pre-Visit Peds Concern Screen ADHD [35022]
10. ADHD Phone Follow Up
11. ADHD Brief Care Plan - Problem List [74661]
12. ADHD Phone Intake [77192]
Smart Phrases – System
1. ROOMINGFUADD [369945]
2. ADHDINITALEVAL [236179]
3. ADHDMEDCHECK [485903]
4. ADHDRECHECK [253302]
5. ADHDREFILL [235327]
6. VANDERBILT [355045]
7. FLOWADULTADHDSELFREPORTINGSCALE [410674]
Smart Links
1. UWOP SBAR ADHD Phone Follow Up [100987]
2. UWOP SBAR ADHD Phone Intake [100986]
3. UW OP ADHD Medication Initiation Date [100933]
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Appendix A. DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria 67
A. A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with
functioning or development, as characterized by (1) and/or (2):
1. Inattention: Six (or more) of the following symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months
to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that negatively impacts
directly on social and academic/occupational activities:
Note: The symptoms are not solely a manifestation of oppositional behavior, defiance, hostility,
or failure to understand tasks or instructions. For older adolescents and adults (age 17 and
older), at least five symptoms are required.
a. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork,
at work, or during other activities (e.g., overlooks or misses details, work is inaccurate).
b. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities (e.g., has difficulty
remaining focused during lectures, conversations, or lengthy reading).
c. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly (e.g., mind seems elsewhere,
even in the absence of any obvious distraction).
d. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or
duties in the workplace (e.g., starts tasks but quickly loses focus and is easily
sidetracked).
e. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities (e.g., difficulty managing sequential
tasks; difficulty keeping materials and belongings in order; messy, disorganized work;
has poor time management; fails to meet deadlines).
f. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental
effort (e.g., schoolwork or homework; for older adolescents and adults, preparing
reports, completing forms, reviewing lengthy papers).
g. Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., school materials, pencils,
books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).
h. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli (for older adolescents and adults, may
include unrelated thoughts).
i. Is often forgetful in daily activities (e.g., doing chores, running errands; for older
adolescents and adults, returning calls, paying bills, keeping appointments).
2. Hyperactivity and impulsivity: Six (or more) of the following symptoms have persisted
for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that
negatively impacts directly on social and academic/occupational activities:
Note: The symptoms are not solely a manifestation of oppositional behavior, defiance, hostility,
or a failure to understand tasks or instructions. For older adolescents and adults (age 17 and
older), at least five symptoms are required.
a. Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in seat.
b. Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected (e.g., leaves his or
her place in the classroom, in the office or other workplace, or in other situations that
require remaining in place).
c. Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate. (Note: In adolescents
or adults, may be limited to feeling restless.)
d. Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
e. Is often “on the go,” acting as if “driven by a motor” (e.g., is unable to be or
uncomfortable being still for extended time, as in restaurants, meetings; may be
experienced by others as being restless or difficult to keep up with).
f. Often talks excessively.
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g. Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed (e.g., completes
people’s sentences; cannot wait for turn in conversation).
h. Often has difficulty waiting his or her turn (e.g., while waiting in line).
i. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations, games, or activities;
may start using other people’s things without asking or receiving permission; for
adolescents and adults, may intrude into or take over what others are doing).
B. Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms were present prior to age 12 years.
C. Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present in two or more settings
(e.g., at home, school, or work; with friends or relatives; in other activities).
D. There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of, social,
academic, or occupational functioning.
E. The symptoms do not occur exclusively during the course of schizophrenia or another
psychotic disorder and are not better explained by another mental disorder (e.g., mood
disorder, anxiety disorder, dissociative disorder, personality disorder, substance intoxication
or withdrawal).
DSM-5 Diagnosis
Specify whether:
• Combined presentation: If both Criterion A1 (inattention) and Criterion A2
(hyperactivity-impulsivity) are met for the past 6 months.
• Predominantly inattentive presentation: If Criterion A1 (inattention) is met but
Criterion A2 (hyperactivity-impulsivity) is not met for the past 6 months.
• Predominately hyperactive/impulsive presentation: If Criterion A2 (hyperactivity-
impulsivity) is met and Criterion A1 (inattention) is not met for the past 6 months.
Specify if:
In partial remission: When full criteria were previously met, fewer than the full criteria have
been met for the past 6 months, and the symptoms still result in impairment in social,
academic, or occupational functioning.
Specify current severity:
• Mild: Few, if any, symptoms in excess of those required to make the diagnosis are
present, and symptoms result in no more than minor impairments in social or
occupational functioning.
• Moderate: Symptoms or functional impairment between “mild” and “severe” are
present.
• Severe: Many symptoms in excess of those required to make the diagnosis, or several
symptoms that are particularly severe, are present, or the symptoms result in marked
impairment in social or occupational functioning.
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Appendix B. Pediatric ADHD Treatment – Stimulant Medications
Drug Formulation Pediatric Dosing and Administration (unless otherwise specified, dosing is for patients ≥ 6 years)
Methylphenidate Preparations
Short-acting
Ritalin®37,53,68-71
5, 10, 20 mg tablet Children 3-5 years: Start at 1.25 mg twice daily and titrate to effect in weekly intervals. Preferred first-line
agent by AAP guidelines if stimulant therapy is needed.
Children ≥ 6 years: Dose 0.3 mg/kg/dose or 2.5-5 mg/dose given before breakfast and lunch; increase by
0.1mg/kg/dose or by 5-10mg in weekly intervals.
Maximum daily dose: If patient weight ≤ 50 kg, max daily dose 2 mg/kg/day or 60 mg/day;
if weight > 50 kg, max dose 100mg/day
Methylin®72,73
5mg/5mL, 10mg/5mL oral
solution
2.5, 5, 10 mg chew tablets
Intermediate-acting
Ritalin LA®74 10, 20, 30, 40 mg capsules* Start at 20 mg in the morning and increase by 20 mg each week until good control is achieved. May need
second dose or regular methylphenidate dose in the afternoon.53 Ritalin SR®68 20 mg tablets
Metadate CD®75 10, 20, 30, 40, 60 mg capsules* Start at 10 mg each morning and increase by 10 mg each week until good control is achieved53
Maximum recommended daily dose: 60 mg
Metadate ER®76 10, 20 mg tablets Start at 10 mg each morning and increase by 10 mg each week until good control is achieved. May need
second dose or regular methylphenidate in the afternoon.53
Maximum recommended daily dose: 60 mg
QuilliChew ER®77 20, 30, 40 mg chewable tablets
(10 mg and 15 mg doses can be
achieved by breaking in half 20 mg
and 30 mg tablets, respectively)
Children 6-12 years: Start at 20 mg once daily in the morning. Dose may be titrated up or down weekly in
increments of 10 mg,15 mg or 20 mg. Maximum recommended daily dose: 60 mg
Cotempla XR-ODT® 78 8.6, 17.3, 25.9 mg extended
release oral disintegrating tablet
Begin at a dose of 17.3 mg daily. Dose may be adjusted by 8.6mg in weekly intervals to a maximum dose of
51.8 mg/day. Place the whole tablet on the tongue and allow it to disintegrate without chewing or crushing.
Patients are advised to take consistently either with food or without food.
Long-acting
Aptensio XR®79 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50,
60 mg capsules*
Begin at a dose of 10 mg daily. Dose may be adjusted in 10mg increments weekly to a maximum dose of
60mg/day.
Concerta®5,69,80
18, 27, 36, 54, 72 mg tablet
(non-crushable)
Begin at a dose of 18mg once in the morning if new to methylphenidate. Dose may be adjusted by 18mg at
weekly intervals.
Maximum daily dose: If patient weight ≤ 50 kg, 54 mg/day; if weight > 50 kg, max dose 108mg/day
Nonabsorbable tablet shell may be seen in stool (Concerta) and is normal, may also appear on x-ray.
For patients using methylphenidate, dosing case on current dose regiment and clinical judgment.
Daytrana®81 10, 15, 20, 30 mg
transdermal patch
Begin at 10 mg/day (if new to or converting from another methylphenidate formulation.)
May adjust dose to next patch size in weekly intervals to max dose of 30 mg/day.
Patch should be applied to the hip area 2 hours before effect is needed and should not be
worn > 9 hours after application. Transdermal patch absorption can increase if body temperature increases
thus patients should avoid long, hot baths, sunbathing, and/or use of heat sources (e.g., sunlamps, tanning
beds, heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, heated waterbeds)
Quillivant XR®82 25 mg/5mL oral suspension Children 6-12 years: Begin at a dose of 20 mg daily in morning. Dose may be adjusted in 10 to 20 mg
increments weekly to a maximum dose of 60mg/day.
Before administering the dose, vigorously shake the bottle of for at least 10 seconds, to ensure that the proper
dose is administered
*Capsules may be carefully opened and beads sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce and given immediately without chewing and should not be stored for future
use.
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Drug Formulation Pediatric Dosing and Administration (unless otherwise specified, dosing is for patients ≥ 6 years)
Dexmethylphenidate Preparations
Short-acting
Focalin®53,83
2.5, 5, 10 mg tablets Begin at a dose of 2.5 mg 1-2 times per day and increase by 5 mg each week until good control is achieved. May
need third reduced dose in afternoon.
Maximum recommended daily dose: 60 mg. 53
Doses should be administered at least 4-hours apart. In general, dexmethylphenidate immediate-release (IR)
dosage forms are dosed at one-half the dosage of methylphenidate IR formulations
Long-acting
Focalin XR®83
5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35,
40 mg capsules*
Begin at a dose of 10 mg daily. Dose may be adjusted in 5-10 mg increments weekly to a maximum dose of
40mg/day.
Amphetamine Preparations
When transitioning a patient from one amphetamine product to another, milligram-for-milligram substation should be avoided. For example, patients need to be re-
initiated on and titrated to an optimal dosage when changing from amphetamine based formulations to mixed-salt amphetamines.
Short-acting
Mixed amphetamine
salts
Adderall®84
5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20,
30 mg tablets
Age 3-5 years: Start 2.5 mg per day in morn; may increase by 2.5 mg at weekly intervals until optimal response
achieved; give 1st dose on awakening.
Age ≥ 6 years: 5 mg once or twice a day; may increase by 5 mg at weekly intervals until optimal response
achieved; give 1st dose on awakening.
An additional one or two doses may be given at 4-6-hour intervals.
DO NOT USE in patients with cardiac disease. Contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, hyperthyroidism,
moderate to severe hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and within 14 days of MAO Inhibitors.
Dextroamphetamine
Dexedrine®85
5,10 mg tablets
Age 3-5 years: Start 2.5 mg per day in morn; may increase by 2.5 mg at weekly intervals until optimal response
achieved. Note: although FDA approved, AAP does not recommend use in children ≤ 5 years.
Age ≥ 6 years: 5 mg once or twice a day; may increase by 5 mg at weekly intervals until optimal response
achieved; give 1st dose on awakening. Doses should be administered at least 4 hours part. Maximum daily dose
40mg/day.
Contraindicated in patients with glaucoma and within 14 days of MAO inhibitors.
Dextroamphetamine
Procentra®86
5mg/mL oral solution
Long-acting
Adderall XR®87
5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 mg
capsules*
Age 6-12 years: Begin at 10 mg once daily. May increase daily dose by 5 mg or 10 mg at weekly intervals.
Initial dose of 5 mg once a day may be given based on clinical judgment.
Age 13-17 years: Begin at 10 mg once a day; may increase to 20 mg once a day after 1 week if symptoms not
controlled.
DO NOT USE in patients with cardiac disease.
Dextroamphetamine
Dexedrine
Spansules®69,88
5, 10, 15 mg capsules* Begin at a dose of 5 mg once or twice daily. Dose may be adjusted in 5 mg increments weekly. Maximum daily
dose if patient weight ≤ 50 kg: 40mg/day, if weight > 50 kg, max 60 mg/day
Mixed amphetamine
salts
Mydayis®89
12.5, 25, 37.5,
50 mg capsules*
Begin at a dose of 12.5 mg once daily. Dose may be adjusted in 12.5 mg increments weekly to a maximum dose
of 50mg/day.
Do not substitute for other amphetamine products on a mg-per-mg basis.
Lisdexamfetamine
Vyvanse®90
10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 mg
capsules*
10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 mg
tablets
Begin at a dose of 30 mg once daily. Dose may be adjusted in 10-20 mg increments weekly to a maximum dose
of 50mg/day. May be good option given less abuse-potential since only active after ingestion.
*Capsules may be carefully opened and beads sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce and given immediately without chewing and should not be stored for future
use.
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Stimulant Medications – Warnings 78,81,85,88 68,72-77,82,83,86,90
(This appendix contains summary level information and the reader should consult full references for full details)
Potential absolute or relative contraindications for stimulant use
• Severe hypertension, angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, advanced arteriosclerosis
• Use may aggravate pre-existing anxiety, tension, or agitation
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Glaucoma
• Motor tics or family/patient history of Tourette’s syndrome
• Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis
• History of substance abuse or concern for diversion
Warnings and precautions for stimulant use
• Sudden deaths, stroke, and myocardial infarction have been reported in adults taking stimulant drugs at usual doses for ADHD. Adults have a greater likelihood of having
serious structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious heart rhythm abnormalities, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac problems
• Stimulant medications may cause a modest increase in average blood pressure (about 2-4 mmHg) and average heart rate (about 3-6 bpm), and individuals may have larger
increases.
• Pre-existing psychosis or bipolar illness or the emergence of new psychotic or manic symptoms
• Appearance of or worsening of aggressive behavior or hostility
• Pre-existing seizure disorder
• Priapism, usually after some time on the drug but also during periods of drug withdrawal
• Peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Visual disturbances (difficulties with accommodation and blurred vision)
• Phenylketonuria, some chewable products have phenylalanine
Potential Harms/Side Effects
• Common side effects include headache, weight loss, anxiety, lack of appetite, insomnia, dry mouth or abdominal pain.
• Less common but serious side effects include:
• Signs of severe cerebrovascular disease (change in strength on one side is greater than the other, trouble speaking or thinking, change in balance, or change in
eyesight)
• Signs of serotonin syndrome (dizziness, severe headache, agitation, hallucinations, tachycardia, abnormal heartbeat, flushing, tremors, sweating a lot, change in
balance, severe nausea, or severe diarrhea)
• Signs of liver problems (dark urine, fatigue, lack of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or jaundice)
• Angina, severe dizziness, passing out, vision changes, shortness of breath, joint pain, purple patches on skin or mouth, blurred vision, tachycardia, bradycardia,
abnormal heartbeat, severe headache, severe nausea, vomiting, seizures, chills, pharyngitis, tremors, abnormal movements, sweating a lot, severe loss of strength
and energy, change in color of hands or feet from pale to blue or red, burning or numbness of hands or feet, cold sensation of extremities, wounds on fingers or toes,
change in amount of urine passed, urinary retention, muscle pain, muscle weakness, libido changes, priapism, skin discoloration, severe skin irritation, signs of
depression (suicidal ideation, anxiety, emotional instability, or confusion), hallucinations, mood changes, or behavioral changes
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Appendix C. Pediatric ADHD Treatment – Non-Stimulant Medications
Drug Formulations Dosing and Administration Contraindications,
Warnings, and
Precautions
Notes
Atomoxetine5,91
Strattera®
10, 18, 25, 40,
60, 80, 100 mg
capsules
Children and adolescents body weight ≤ 70 kg body weight: Initiate
total daily dose 0.5mg/kg and increased after a minimum of 3 days to
target total daily dose of 1.2 mg/kg, given as either single daily dose or
as evenly divided doses in morning and late afternoon/evening.
Children and adolescents body weight > 70 kg body weight:
Initiate total daily dose of 40 mg and increase after a minimum of 3 days
to target total daily dose of approximately 80 mg (given either as a
single daily dose in the morning or as evenly divided doses in the
morning and late afternoon/early evening.) After 2-4 additional weeks,
dose may be increased to a maximum of 100 mg an optimal response
not achieved.
Total daily dose should not exceed 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg, whichever is
less.
Contraindications
• Monoamine Oxidase
Inhibitors
• Narrow angle glaucoma
• Pheochromocytoma
• Severe cardiovascular
disorders
Warnings and Precautions
• Black box warning-
increased risk of
suicidal ideation in
children/adolescents
• Adverse effects
include sedation and
somnolence
• Delayed onset (2-4
weeks), lower efficacy
than stimulants
• DO NOT open
capsule and sprinkle
on food.
Guanfacine*
extended-
release (ER)5,91
Intuniv®
1, 2, 3, 4 mg
extended-
release tablets
Initiate dose of 1 mg/day, and adjust in increments of no more
than 1 mg/week. Maintain dose within the range of 1 mg to 4 mg once
daily, or both monotherapy and adjunctive therapy to a psychostimulant.
If switching from immediate-release (IR) guanfacine, discontinue IR
treatment and titrate with above schedule. DO NOT substitute on mg
per mg bases because of differing pharmacokinetic profiles (ER
guanfacine has lower bioavailability than IR.)
Contraindications
• Known hypersensitivity
to guanfacine
• Dosing adjustments
are recommended
with concomitant use
of CYP3A4 inhibitors
or inducers
• Delayed onset (2-4
weeks)
• Taper off to avoid
rebound hypertension
Clonidine*
Extended-
release69,92
Kapvay®
0.1 mg
extended-
release tablets
Initiated with one 0.1 mg tablet at bedtime, and the daily dosage should
be adjusted in increments of 0.1 mg/day at weekly intervals until the
desired response is achieved. Doses should be taken twice a day, with
either an equal or higher split dosage being given at bedtime. Doses
higher than 0.4 mg/day (0.2 mg twice daily) were not evaluated in
clinical trials for ADHD and are not recommended.
Do not substitute for other clonidine products on a mg-per-mg basis,
because of differing pharmacokinetic profiles.
Contraindications
• Known hypersensitivity
to guanfacine
• Adverse effects
include sedation and
somnolence
(especially with IR
use)
• Taper off to avoid
rebound hypertension
*Note: Immediate release (IR) guanfacine and IR clonidine are available. Clinicians should be aware that utilizing IR formulations of either medicine
to treat ADHD constitutes off-label use since they are not FDA-approved for this indication.
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Drug Formulations Dosing and Administration Contraindications, Warnings, and
Precautions
Notes
Bupropion5,69,
93,94
Off-label for
ADHD
IR: 75 mg, 100
mg
SR: 100, 150,
200 mg
XL: 150, 300
mg
Immediate release, hydrochloride salts: Dose 3
mg/kg/day in 2 to 3 divided doses; maximum initial dose:
150 mg/day. Titrate dose as needed to a maximum
daily dose of 6 mg/kg/day or 300 mg/day with no single
dose >150 mg
Sustained Release (SR) and Extended Release (XL)
formulations: May be used in place of regular tablets
once 12-hour dosage corresponds to SR tablet or 24-
hour dosage corresponds to XL tablet size.
Contraindications
• Seizure disorder
• Bulimia
• Anorexia nervosa
• Abrupt discontinuation of alcohol,
benzodiazepines, barbiturates and
antiepileptics
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Warnings and Precautions
• Black box warning- increased risk of
suicidal ideation in children/adolescents
• Lowers seizure threshold
• Hypertension
• Activation of mania/hypomania
• Psychosis
• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Adverse effects
include agitation,
headache/migraine
• Can cause false-
positive urine test
results for
amphetamines
• Inhibits CYP2D6 can
increase
concentration of
antidepressants (e.g.,
venlafaxine,
desipramine,
nortriptyline,
sertraline),
antipsychotics (e.g.,
risperidone,
haloperidol)
Desipramine95
Norpramin®
Off-label for
ADHD
10, 25, 50, 75,
100, 150 mg
Initial: 25 mg at bedtime; increase at weekly intervals in
25 mg/day increments up to a maximum dose of 25 mg
four times daily (100 mg/day) not to exceed 3 mg/kg/day
Contraindications
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Acute recovery period following
myocardial infarction
• Hypersensitivity to drug
Warnings and Precautions
• Suicide Risk
• Mania/hypomania
• Serotonin Syndrome
• Cardiovascular disease (consider
obtaining baseline ECG before
initiating)
• Seizure disorder
• Bone marrow suppression
• Unmasking of Brugada Syndrome
• Angle-Closure glaucoma
• Adverse effects
include
anticholinergic
effects
Nortriptyline96
Pamelor®
Off-label for
ADHD
10, 25, 50, 75
mg
10 mg/5mL
solution
0.5 mg/kg/day; may increase by 0.5 mg/kg/day
increments at weekly intervals; can consider splitting
dose to twice daily
Maximum dose: 2mg/kg/day or 100 mg, whichever is
less
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Appendix D. Pediatric ADHD Medication Algorithm 53,97,98
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Appendix E. ADHD HEDIS Measure
Follow-Up Care for Children Prescribed ADHD Medications (ADD)
The percentage of children newly prescribed ADHD medication who had at least 3 follow-up
care visits within a 10-month (300 day) period, one of which was within 30 days of when the first
ADHD medication was dispensed. Two rates are reported:
• Initiation Phase –Percentage of members, 6-12 years of age, who had 1 follow-up visit with
a prescribing practitioner within 30 days of starting the medication
• Continuation and Maintenance (C&M) Phase –Percentage of members, 6-12 years of
age, who remained on the medication for at least 210 days (allowed 90 gap days, so look at
300 days total to find 210 days on Rx) and who had at least 2 additional follow-up visits with
a practitioner within 270 days (9 months) after end of Initiation phase. One of these two
contacts (during days 31-300) may be by telephone with an MD, PA or NP (not RN or LPN).
Member must not have filled a prescription for an ADHD medication within 120 days (4 months)
prior to current prescription.
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83. Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate) extended-release capsules [prescribing information]. East Hanover NN,
2015. M. In.
84. Adderall (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine) [prescribing information]. Horsham PTP, 2016. D. In.
85. Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) tablets [prescribing information]. Horsham PAPL, 2014. M. In.
86. ProCentra (dextroamphetamine) [prescribing information]. Newport KIP, 2017. F. In.
87. Adderall XR (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine) [prescribing information]. Lexington MSUI, 2017. J. In.
88. Dexedrine Spansule (dextroamphetamine) capsules [prescribing information]. Horsham PAP, 2017. J. In.
89. Mydayis (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine) [prescribing information]. Lexington MSU, Inc., 2017. J. In.
90. Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) [prescribing information]. Lexington MSUI, 2018. J. In.
91. Intuniv (guanfacine) [prescribing information]. Lexington MSUI, 2018. M. In.
92. Kapvay (clonidine) [prescribing information]. St. Michael BC, 2016. A. In.
93. Wellbutrin SR (bupropion hydrochloride) [prescribing information]. Research Triangle Park NG, 2017 M.
In.
94. Wellbutrin XL (bupropion hydrochloride) [prescribing information]. Bridgewater NVPNAL, 2017. M. In.
95. Norpramin (desipramine) [prescribing information]. Bridgewater NS-AUL, 2012. In.
96. Pamelor (nortriptyline) [prescribing information]. Hazelwood MMI, 2016. O. In.
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Introduction
Scope
Recommendations
Presentation and Screening
Clinical Evaluation
Comorbid and/or Confounding Disorders
Using a rating scale to evaluate symptoms
Provide Treatment
Treatment Recommendations by Age
Behavioral Therapy
Vocational/Educational Accommodations
Medication Therapy
Complementary and Alternative Therapies (CAT)
Follow-Up Care
Table 2. When to Refer to a Specialist59
Methodology
Collateral Tools & Resources
Appendix B. Pediatric ADHD Treatment – Stimulant Medications
Stimulant Medications – Warnings 78,81,85,88 68,72-77,82,83,86,90
Appendix C. Pediatric ADHD Treatment – Non-Stimulant Medications
Appendix E. ADHD HEDIS Measure
References