Pharmacotherapy of Comorbid Disruptive Behavioral Disorders in Children and Adolescents with ADHD

ABSTRACT

Disruptive behavioral disorders [oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD)] are common comorbid disorders in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ODD/CD may be comorbid up to 60% of children and adolescents with ADHD. Comorbid ODD and CD symptoms can have a significant impact on the course and prognosis of patients with ADHD. Stimulant medications have shown effectiveness in treating both core ADHD symptoms and oppositional symptoms. Assessment and management of comorbid disruptive behavioral symptoms is an essential part in evaluation and treatment of ADHD patients. Further research is needed to investigate the efficacy and safety of various behavioral and medication regimens for ADHD, comorbid ODD and CD and to examine the relationships between ADHD, comorbid ODD and CD.