Comparative Effectiveness Review Summary Guides for Clinicians

In response to a request from the public, a review was undertaken to evaluate the evidence regarding 1) the potential benefits and adverse effects associated with treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in preschoolers, 2) the long-term effectiveness of interventions for ADHD in individuals 6 years of age and older, and 3) the variability of prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment associated with potential moderating factors. The systematic review included 223 studies published from January 1980 through May 2010. The full report, listing all studies, is available at www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/adhdtreatment.cfm. This summary is provided to inform discussions with patients and caregivers of options and to assist in decisionmaking along with consideration of a patient or caregiver’s values and preferences. However, reviews of evidence should not be construed to represent clinical recommendations or guidelines.