As we explore groundbreaking advances in ADHD care and treatment over the coming years, three areas of research are particularly exciting to me.
They involve new pharmacologic interventions; studies of the gut-brain link and the impact of the gut microbiome on brain functioning; and an increased understanding of specific variants of ADHD arising from different combinations of gene-environment influences.
All of these could unlock personalized interventions.In this final installment of ADDitude magazine’s two-part series, “The Future of ADHD” (the first part appeared in the Winter 2023 issue), I’ll explain each of the developments poised to revolutionize ADHD understanding and treatment.Development of pharmacologic interventions for ADHD has mushroomed over the last two decades.
Though researchers have made progress in developing non-stimulant treatment options (i.e., long-acting forms of clonidine and guanfacine, as well as atomoxetine and viloxazine), most of the FDA-approved agents are simply tweaks of methylphenidate and amphetamine compounds.There are now more choices available to prescribers and patients, offering stimulant preparations of varying durations, delivery formats (patch, liquid, tablet, capsule), and pharmacokinetic profiles.