Alpha-2 adrenergic receptors and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Current Psychiatry Reports
L Cinnamon BidwellScott H Kollins

Abstract

Pharmacologic management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has expanded beyond stimulant medications to include alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These agents exert their actions through presynaptic stimulation and likely involve facilitation of dopamine and noradrenaline neurotransmission, both of which are thought to play critical roles in the pathophysiology of ADHD. Furthermore, frontostriatal dysfunction giving rise to neuropsychological weaknesses has been well-established in patients with ADHD and may explain how alpha-2 agents exert their beneficial effects. In the following review, we consider relevant neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD with respect to why alpha-2 agents may be effective in treating this condition. We also review new formulations of alpha-2 agonists, emerging data on their use in ADHD, and implications for clinical practice. Integrating knowledge of pathophysiologic mechanisms and mechanisms of drug action may inform our medication choices and facilitate treatment of ADHD and related disorders.

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Citations

May 21, 2011·Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior·L Cinnamon BidwellScott H Kollins
Apr 4, 2015·European Neuropsychopharmacology : the Journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology·Mark J MillanSven Ove Ögren
Mar 14, 2017·Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services·Laura G Leahy
Nov 24, 2020·Autism Research : Official Journal of the International Society for Autism Research·Rinku ThapaAdam J Guastella
Nov 3, 2020·Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry·Victor Pereira-SanchezFrancisco X Castellanos
Apr 15, 2021·The Mental Health Clinician·Anupha M MathewAdrienne Pruitt
Jun 27, 2021·Pharmacology & Therapeutics·Konstantin MechlerAlexander Häge

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