What evaluation is recommended before starting a patient on stimulants, such as methylphenidate or Adderall (amphetamine), for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Pre-Stimulant Evaluation for ADHD Treatment

Before starting a patient on stimulant medication for ADHD, a complete psychiatric evaluation must be performed, including detailed psychiatric and medical history, collateral information from significant others, documentation of target symptoms, and a mental status examination. 1, 2

Required Evaluation Components

1. Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment

• Document that the patient meets DSM diagnostic criteria for ADHD
• Assess severity of symptoms and resulting impairment in academic/occupational, social, and family functioning
• Gather information from at least two sources, preferably from different settings (e.g., home, school, work) 1
• Use validated and age/sex-normed rating scales to document baseline symptoms 1
• Screen for comorbid psychiatric conditions that may affect treatment:
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Depression
  • Personality disorders
  • Learning disabilities
  • Substance use disorders 1

2. Medical Evaluation

• Complete medical history and physical examination 1
• Screening laboratory tests to rule out medical conditions that might mimic ADHD 1
• Detailed personal and family cardiac history, specifically asking about:
  • Specific cardiac symptoms
  • Family history of sudden death
  • Cardiovascular symptoms
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
  • Long QT syndrome 1
• Baseline vital signs (blood pressure and heart rate) 1, 3
• Consider ECG if cardiac risk factors are present 1

3. Substance Use Assessment

• Detailed history of drug and alcohol use 1
• Consider urine drug screening, especially with history of substance use 1
• Ensure the patient is not using non-prescribed stimulants 1

4. Contraindication Screening

• Check for absolute contraindications:
  • Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or amphetamine components 3, 4
  • Concurrent treatment with MAOIs or use within preceding 14 days 3
  • Advanced cardiovascular disease
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Glaucoma
  • Severe agitation
  • History of psychosis or mania 2

Special Considerations

For Children and Adolescents

• Document growth parameters (height and weight) for baseline monitoring 1
• Assess for tics or Tourette's syndrome 4
• Ensure the child has a responsible adult who can administer medication 1
• Consider school personnel involvement for in-school doses 1

For Adults

• Focus on core ADHD symptoms starting in childhood 1
• Obtain information from spouse, significant other, parent, or friend 1
• Be aware that adults with ADHD often have poor insight and underestimate symptom severity 1

For Older Adults (≥50 years)

• More thorough cardiovascular assessment
• Start with lower doses and increase more slowly 5

Post-Evaluation Monitoring Plan

• Regular monitoring of vital signs, weight, appetite, and sleep quality 2
• In children, monitor height and weight regularly 1
• Watch for emergence of tics or worsening of Tourette's syndrome 4
• Monitor for psychiatric adverse reactions, especially psychotic or manic symptoms 3

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Failing to document baseline symptoms using standardized measures
• Not screening adequately for substance use disorders
• Overlooking cardiac risk factors
• Neglecting to establish a monitoring plan for side effects
• Ignoring comorbid psychiatric conditions that may affect treatment 2

By following this comprehensive pre-stimulant evaluation protocol, you can ensure safe and effective treatment initiation for patients with ADHD while minimizing risks and optimizing outcomes.