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Introduction: The prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the world is estimated at about 5%. Among adults, it occurs with a frequency of 2.5%. This syndrome can significantly impair functioning in various areas of life. There is a treatment to reduce the symptoms. Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to collect and analyze publications on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - symptoms, diagnosis and therapy, taking into account the differences among children and adults. Material and methods: We reviewed the literature available in the PubMed database using the keywords: "ADHD"; "Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder"; '' ADHD diagnosis', ''ADHD therapy'; ‘’ADHD drug therapy’, ‘’Methylphenidate’, ‘’Atomoxetine” Results: The clinical presentation of the disorder changes over the years. The main symptoms among children are related to inattention and impulsiveness, while among adults, hyperactivity can turn into a feeling of inner fear. Among children, frequent accompanying disorders are behavioral and oppositional-defiant disorders, and among adults, sleep disorders, personality, mood and anxiety disorders. ADHD treatment is based on a multimodal approach that uses cognitive behavioral therapy and effective stimulants (methylphenidate) and non-stimulants (atomoxetine) among children and adults. Conclusions: There are differences in symptoms, comorbidities and diagnosis of ADHD among children and adults. Pharmacotherapy is carried out using the same drugs that are safe and effective. Diagnosis of the disorder and both non-pharmacological and pharmacological help are important due to the risk of increased mortality in patients.

There is evidence for the efficacy of pharmacotherapy in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychostimulants (mainly methylphenidate) and atomoxetine are the most commonly used agents. However, due to incomplete efficacy or adverse effects it is not always possible to achieve complete symptom remission with monotherapy. In such cases, attempts are made to combine methylphenidate and atomoxetine. Although this combination has not been officially recognised as a recommended therapeutic strategy due to the limited scientific evidence, it may be found in some guidelines as a last resort option after failure with several consecutive monotherapies. The research data is in contrast with the registry data, which shows that the combination is used in many countries in up to a few percent of patients diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The aim of the paper is to present research data on the efficacy and safety of combined methylphenidate/atomoxetine therapy and its use in clinical practice, as well as to discuss its potential place in the therapeutic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomoxetine is a relatively new medication used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (hyperkinetic disorder in the ICD-10 classification) in children, adolescents and adults. The drug is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Since atomoxetine does not belong to psychostimulants, it is particularly useful in clinical situations associated with the risk of dependence as well as in patients experiencing severe psychostimulant-induced adverse reactions, such as emotional lability or tics, and those refusing psychostimulant therapy. Importantly, it is effective in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and coexisting conditions, such as active psychoactive substance dependence, anxiety disorders and tics. The drug has a recognised position in the international standards for the treatment of hyperkinetic syndrome, with multiple studies supporting its efficacy. The paper presents a characteristics of the drug, indications and contraindications for its use, the most common adverse reactions and precautions as well as a literature review on its efficacy in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, including comparison with other drugs most commonly used in this indication. Benefits and risks associated with the use of atomoxetine as well as its place in the treatment standards for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, advantage over other methods of treatment, and restrictions on its use were also discussed. The paper further discusses practical considerations associated with inclusion and dosing of the drug as well as with specific clinical situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic disorder with the onset of symptoms (such as hyperactivity, concentration problems or impulsiveness) in childhood. ADHD should be managed as a chronic disease with long and multifaceted treatment. The management should involve both the child and the environment in which he or she functions (school, family). Of non-pharmacological methods, ADHD can be treated with, for instance, psychoeducation, psychosocial treatment or psychotherapy. Pharmacological treatment is initiated if therapy measures are ineffective, there are profound and persistent functional deficits or the patient experiences disorders being ADHD complications. Drugs authorised for ADHD in Poland include methylphenidate (a psychostimulant) and atomoxetine (a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Psychostimulants act through enhanced dopamine release and inhibited serotonin and catecholamine reuptake (methylphenidate affects dopamine reuptake). There are also other drugs that might be helpful in relieving ADHD symptoms. The drug selection depends on numerous factors, such as the patient's somatic and mental state, comorbidities and duration of action. The physician must evaluate treatment efficacy and control possible adverse events throughout the entire treatment. ADHD should be treated with a monotherapy. If it brings no effects or causes adverse events, the drug should be changed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]