Alpha-2 adrenergic receptors and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Pharmacologic management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has expanded beyond stimulant medications to include alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These agents exert their actions through presynaptic stimulation and likely involve facilitation of dopamine and noradrenaline neurotransmission, both of which are thought to play critical roles in the pathophysiology of ADHD. Furthermore, frontostriatal dysfunction giving rise to neuropsychological weaknesses has been well-established in patients with ADHD and may explain how alpha-2 agents exert their beneficial effects. In the following review, we consider relevant neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD with respect to why alpha-2 agents may be effective in treating this condition. We also review new formulations of alpha-2 agonists, emerging data on their use in ADHD, and implications for clinical practice. Integrating knowledge of pathophysiologic mechanisms and mechanisms of drug action may inform our medication choices and facilitate treatment of ADHD and related disorders.
Duke Scholars
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- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2
- Psychiatry
- Humans
- Brain
- Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
- Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists
- 5203 Clinical and health psychology
- 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
- 3202 Clinical sciences
- 1701 Psychology
Citation
Published In
DOI
EISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-2
- Psychiatry
- Humans
- Brain
- Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
- Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists
- 5203 Clinical and health psychology
- 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
- 3202 Clinical sciences
- 1701 Psychology