Comorbidities in adult attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder: A practical guide to diagnosis in primary care

Alice R. Mao, Robert L. Findling

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

Diagnosis and management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults is complex and challenging because of the frequent comorbidity of other psychiatric disorders that have symptoms overlapping with those of ADHD. The presence of comorbidities can create challenges to making an accurate diagnosis and also impact treatment options and outcomes. This review discusses disorders that may be comorbid with ADHD in adults, including anxiety, mood, substance use disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Suggestions for recognizing these comorbidities and distinguishing them from ADHD and perspectives on their possible impact on ADHD treatment are included. Adjunctive nonpharmacologic modalities may be especially helpful in the case of comorbid mood, anxiety, substance abuse, or personality disorders.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)42-51
Number of pages10
JournalPostgraduate medicine
Volume126
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Adults
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
  • Comorbidity
  • Pharmacotherapy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine(all)

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