ADHD in the News 2018-09-06

ADHD Rates Rising Sharply in U.S. Kids

The number of ADHD diagnoses among children has risen dramatically in the past two decades, going from 6 percent to 10 percent, a new report shows...To study ADHD trends, [researchers] reviewed 20 years of data from the National Health Interview Survey, which is conducted annually by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The investigators looked at statistics from 1997 to 2017.



Similar changes in the brains of patients with ADHD and emotional instability

In both ADHD and emotional instability disorders (e.g. borderline and antisocial personality disorder as well as conduct disorder in children), the brain exhibits similar changes in overlapping areas, meaning that the two types of conditions should be seen as related and attention should be paid to both during diagnosis.



Exergaming can improve executive function in children with ADHD

A new study has found evidence that playing video games that involve physical exertion (exergaming) can improve executive function in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The findings appear in the journal Scientific Reports.



Possible Tie to First-Line ADHD Drug and Hallucinations, Other Psychotic Symptoms

The meta-analysis, which included 10 randomized controlled trials, 17 nonrandomized studies, and 18 patient reports, showed that 1% to 2.5% of participants experienced such troublesome symptoms. However, investigators emphasize that the quality of the data in the included studies is subpar and that there is a possibility of bias.



Treating Adults With ADHD Requires Special Considerations

To help you navigate the potential risks of medications commonly used to treat ADHD, my colleagues and I have developed a step-by-step algorithm on adult ADHD pharmacology. However, it is a work in progress and has not yet gone through peer review. Indeed, important new research published just in the last month has led to one change in recommendations. We are looking for feedback.



Autism Spectrum Disorder and Medications

The medication types commonly used to treat those with ASD are stimulants, nonstimulants, atypical antipsychotics, and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs)...Stimulants...can help treat the ADHD symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that commonly co-occur with ASD.