Stimulant Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder for the Pediatric Prescriber: A Review of Stimulant-Dosing Strategies and An Overview of New Stimulants

Pediatr Ann. 2025 Jan;54(1):e22-e26. doi: 10.3928/19382359-20241007-06. Epub 2025 Jan 1.

Abstract

Pediatricians are often the first providers to assess and treat attention-deficit/hyper-activity disorder (ADHD) in youth. While a variety of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions exist for ADHD, stimulants remain the first-line medication treatment. Many stimulant formulations now exist, providing the pediatric prescriber with a diverse repertoire of treatment options. This article is tailored to the pediatric prescriber in the primary care setting and discusses stimulant management, with emphasis on dosing equivalencies, common stimulant-dosing strategies, and newer stimulants. [Pediatr Ann. 2025;54(1):e22-e26.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / drug therapy
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants* / administration & dosage
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants* / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Pediatricians
  • Pediatrics / methods
  • Primary Health Care

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants