ADHD With Bipolar Disorder: Genetics, Diagnosis, and New Thinking on Treatment

 ADHD in the News 2025-06-19


Key Takeaways: ADHD in children increases the risk of developing bipolar disorder, with overlapping genetic factors potentially contributing to this comorbidity. Differentiating ADHD from bipolar disorder involves recognizing episodic patterns, as ADHD symptoms are constant, while bipolar symptoms occur in discrete episodes. Recent studies suggest methylphenidate may be safe for treating ADHD in bipolar patients without mood stabilizers, but amphetamines' safety remains uncertain. Further research is needed to clarify the safety and efficacy of amphetamine use in patients with comorbid ADHD and bipolar disorder.