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In the adult patient with ADHD

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Adult ADHD: The primary care provider role

What to expect of a primary care clinician

  • Administer brief (5-minute) screening first.
  • Administer Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and apply DSM criteria.
  • Screen for comorbid conditions that may confound diagnosis or present treatment challenges.
  • Initiate a psychoeducation (lifestyle changes) component as first step in treatment.
  • Monitor response to medication for side-effects or lack of therapeutic response.
  • Refer patient to a specialist if required.
Adapted from: Umesh Jain, The adult patient with ADHD, Psychiatry in Primary Care (CAMH, 2011)

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Frequently asked questions

Clinical guidelines

Canadian ADHD practice guidelines (CADDRA, 2011)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management (NICE guideline CG72, 2008)