Long-acting formulations of alpha 2 adrenergic agonists have recently been approved for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These novel medications used in the treatment of ADHD offer advantages for certain patients, who do not respond to other types of treatment or have contraindications/adverse events related to using the other approved treatments for ADHD. The alpha 2 adrenergic agonists include guanfacine long-acting and clonidine extended release. These agents are non-stimulant, non-addictive psychotropic medications that do not increase blood pressure and heart rate as do other approved medications for ADHD. Given their unique mechanism of action, they will not exacerbate or induce tics. At present, these agents do not seem to promote mania, which is an advantage in treating bipolar patients who frequently have co-morbid ADHD. Most other treatments for ADHD put these patients at risk for developing mania, if comorbid ADHD is present. Moreover, these medications may have potential as an intervention in oppositional defiant disorder, which can be comorbid with ADHD in up to 60% of cases.

This oral presentation will provide data on the development of this novel class of ADHD treatments. It will review the efficacy and adverse events associated with these medications. Additionally, it will compare these novel medications with other approved treatments for ADHD thereby helping the clinician make cogent decisions about the type of case for which they are best suited. The presentation will end with a discussion of combining alpha 2 adrenergic agonists with other medications to provide optimal outcomes.