ADHD is characterized by three primary symptom domains, though their manifestation varies by age and individual: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Managing is rarely about "curing" it. It is about scaffolding. The most effective approach is multimodal.

| Class | Examples | Mechanism | Effect Size (SMD)* | Common Side Effects | |-------|----------|-----------|-------------------|---------------------| | Stimulants (Methylphenidate) | Ritalin, Concerta | DAT blockade, ↑ DA/NE | 0.7-1.2 | Insomnia, appetite suppression, headache | | Stimulants (Amphetamine) | Adderall, Vyvanse | DAT reversal + release | 0.8-1.3 | Same; higher abuse potential | | Non-stimulant (NRI) | Atomoxetine (Strattera) | NE reuptake inhibition | 0.5-0.7 | Nausea, sedation, hepatotoxicity (rare) | | Alpha-2 agonists | Guanfacine XR, Clonidine | Postsynaptic α2A agonism | 0.4-0.6 | Hypotension, drowsiness |