Diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in children vs adults: What nurses should know

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) commonly occurs in childhood and may persist into adulthood. Important differences exist between pediatric and adult ADHD with regard to symptoms, comorbidities, diagnosis, and management. Both patient populations benefit from a treatment plan tailored to individual patient needs, and the availability of new stimulant formulations contributes to treatment personalization. To guide nurses' clinical practice in improving ADHD treatment outcomes, this review examines the differences between pediatric and adult ADHD and new treatment options. •Important differences in diagnosis and treatment of pediatric and adult ADHD exist.•Management of ADHD should include behavioral and pharmacological therapies.•Individualized treatment may include newer formulations of ADHD medications.