Strategies in ADHD, An Issue of
ChildAnd Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics
of North America, 1st Edition
Editors :
Jeffrey H. Newcorn & Timothy E. Wilens
, Chapter 1: From Structural Disparities to Neuropharmacology: A
Review of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Medication Treatment
1. Which of the following is a primary neurotransmitter implicated in ADHD?
Dopamine
Serotonin
Norepinephrine
Acetylcholine
Correct Answer: Dopamine
Rationale: Dopamine plays a significant role in attention and reward pathways, and its
dysregulation is associated with ADHD.
2. In adults, ADHD can often be misdiagnosed as which of the following conditions?
Anxiety Disorders
Personality Disorders
Depression
All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Rationale: Adults with ADHD frequently demonstrate symptoms overlapping with
anxiety, personality, and mood disorders, which can lead to misdiagnosis.
3. Which medication class is commonly used as a first-line treatment for adult ADHD?
Antidepressants
Stimulants
Mood Stabilizers
Antipsychotics
Correct Answer: Stimulants
Rationale: Stimulant medications, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate, are the
most effective and widely prescribed for ADHD.
4. Select all that apply: Which of the following are potential side effects of stimulant
medications used for ADHD?
Increased heart rate
Sleep disturbances
Weight gain
Reduced appetite
Correct Answer: Increased heart rate, Sleep disturbances, Reduced appetite
Rationale: These are common side effects of stimulants, although weight gain is not
typically associated; it often causes weight loss.
,5. In the neurobiological context of ADHD, structural disparities have been primarily
observed in which brain regions?
Prefrontal Cortex
Amygdala
Hippocampus
Cerebellum
Correct Answer: Prefrontal Cortex
Rationale: The prefrontal cortex is crucial for executive function and attention; studies
show it often exhibits structural anomalies in individuals with ADHD.
6. Which of the following treatments has shown effectiveness for individuals with
ADHD who do not respond well to stimulant medications?
Antipsychotics
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Atomoxetine
Benzodiazepines
Correct Answer: Atomoxetine
Rationale: Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication specifically approved for
treating ADHD and is effective for individuals intolerant to stimulants.
7. What is the estimated prevalence of adult ADHD in the general population?
1-2%
3-4%
5-10%
10-15%
Correct Answer: 3-4%
Rationale: Research indicates that the prevalence of adult ADHD symptoms is
approximately 3-4% in the adult population.
8. Which of the following are considered non-pharmacological treatments for adult
ADHD?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness training
Dietary changes
Both A and B
Correct Answer: Both A and B
Rationale: CBT and mindfulness are effective non-pharmacological strategies,
whereas dietary changes are not universally validated as a treatment for ADHD.
9. In considering ADHD pharmacotherapy, which factor is NOT typically accounted for
in prescribing decisions?
Patient age
Comorbid conditions
, Family history of ADHD
Occupation
Correct Answer: Occupation
Rationale: While age, comorbidities, and family history are important in determining
treatment, occupation is generally not a deciding factor.
10. Stimulant medications primarily work by increasing the availability of which
neurotransmitter(s)?
GABA
Dopamine and Norepinephrine
Serotonin and Acetylcholine
Histamine
Correct Answer: Dopamine and Norepinephrine
Rationale: Stimulants enhance the activity of dopamine and norepinephrine in the
brain, vital for attention and focus.
11. Select all that apply: Which of the following factors can exacerbate ADHD symptoms
in adults?
Stress
Sleep deprivation
High caffeine intake
Regular exercise
Correct Answer: Stress, Sleep deprivation, High caffeine intake
Rationale: stress, insufficient sleep, and excessive caffeine can worsen ADHD
symptoms, whereas regular exercise is typically beneficial.
12. Which of the following is a risk factor for developing ADHD in adulthood?
Genetic predisposition
Traumatic brain injury
Environmental toxins
All of the above
Correct Answer: All of the above
Rationale: Genetic, environmental, and physical health factors can all contribute to the
development of ADHD in adults.
13. What is the primary purpose of psychoeducation in adult ADHD treatment?
To provide nutritional guidance
To inform patients about the disorder and treatment options
To increase physical activity
To promote compliance with medication