From the Guidelines
Yes, there are new generation medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) currently under development.
Current Development Status
- As of 2020, there were 14 novel substances being developed for the treatment of ADHD, with 5 substances still in development after others failed pivotal trials or were halted 1.
- These new substances include a prodrug of methylphenidate and a repurposed antidepressant (viloxazine), which are closest to potential FDA approval/marketing authorization for the treatment of ADHD 1.
Medication Examples
- A prodrug of methylphenidate is one of the novel medications being developed, offering a potentially new formulation of an existing medication.
- Viloxazine, a repurposed antidepressant, is another medication being considered for the treatment of ADHD, although its mechanism is not entirely new.
Future Directions
- Further research is needed to investigate the long-term effects of these new medications, compare them head-to-head and in combination, and address the limited representativeness of study populations 1.
- The development of novel medications for ADHD is ongoing, with several substances in various stages of development, but it is too early to judge their potential for future treatment 1.
From the Research
New Generation Medication for ADHD
There are several new generation medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) that have been developed in recent years. Some of these medications include:
- Viloxazine extended release, a nonstimulant medication 2
- Transdermal amphetamine patch, the first patch approved to treat ADHD 2
- Azstarys®, a prodrug that improves compliance, delivers greater efficacy, and reduces risks for diversion and abuse 3
- Lisdexamfetamine, a once-daily medication that improves compliance and reduces risks for diversion and abuse 3
Characteristics of New Generation Medications
These new generation medications offer several benefits, including:
- Personalization of treatment based on symptom profile, lifestyle, preferences, and response 2
- Improved compliance due to once-daily formulations or prodrugs 3, 4
- Reduced risks for diversion and abuse due to prodrugs or alternative formulations 3, 4
- Digital therapeutics that enhance access, affordability, personalization, and feasibility of ADHD care 2
Development of New Medications
The development of new medications for ADHD is an ongoing process, with several drugs currently in development 5. These drugs target novel receptors and may offer new treatment options for patients with ADHD. However, the development of new medications is challenging due to the complex genetics of ADHD 5.
Current Research and Findings
Recent studies have shown that these new generation medications are effective and safe for the treatment of ADHD 2, 3. For example, the study by 2 found that Viloxazine extended release and transdermal amphetamine patch are effective and safe for the treatment of ADHD. Another study by 3 found that Azstarys® and lisdexamfetamine are effective and safe for the treatment of ADHD.