ADHD: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

Home ADHD: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

ADHD: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

An 8-year-old male is brought into the clinic by his mother, who is concerned about his behavior in school and at home for the past 7 months. In both settings, he lacks the ability to pay attention, does not follow directions or listen, is easily distracted, is reluctant to do tasks, and constantly loses his homework and pencils. Which of the following is a common side effect of the first-line treatment for this condition?

A. Cognitive fog
B. Appetite suppression
C. Constipation
D. Somnolence
E. Xerosis

Answer and topic summary

The answer is B. Appetite suppression

The patient has attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There are two main patterns: inattentive or hyperactive-impulse (some may have a combined presentation). The DSM V has criteria for diagnosing ADHD and the various subtypes, but in general, symptoms should be seen in multiple settings, last for 6 months or more, and negatively impact social/academic activities. The first-line pharmacological treatment for ADHD in most cases is a stimulant (e.g., methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, etc). The most adverse effects of stimulants include moodiness and irritability and appetite suppression. It’s important to monitor children’s growth and weight when they are taking a stimulant for this very reason.

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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:

Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Psychiatry ⇒ Neurodevelopmental disorders ⇒ Attention-Deficit/hyperactivity Disorder

Also covered as part of the Pediatric Rotation and Psychiatry EOR topic list