Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): psychiatric comorbidity and pharmacological treatment alternative to methylphenidate

About half of children and adolescents with ADHD suffer at least from another psychiatric condition, making more difficult both diagnosis and treatment, and worsening outcome. Psychiatric conditions more frequently associated with ADHD are: disruptive behaviour disorder, anxiety disorder and mood disorder. Regarding pharmacological treatment alternatives to methylphenidate, the non-stimulant drug with more scientific data supporting its efficacy and safety in children and adolescents wit ADHD is atomoxetine, and it is the only drug recommended as first choice, as well as stimulants. Among the rest of non-stimulant treatments, tricyclic antidepressants are the next drugs having more data supporting their efficacy, although they have more safety problems.