What is the best course of treatment for a 43-year-old female with no prior history of psychiatric diagnoses, presenting with symptoms of inattention, disorganization, and impaired focus, consistent with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), that have worsened over the past year, particularly in a new professional role requiring sustained attention and organization?

Treatment Approach for Adult ADHD with Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

Initiate pharmacotherapy with a stimulant medication (methylphenidate or amphetamine) as first-line treatment, starting at low doses and titrating to optimal response, while simultaneously implementing behavioral strategies and workplace accommodations. 1

Diagnostic Confirmation

Before initiating treatment, confirm the diagnosis meets DSM-5 criteria for ADHD, predominantly inattentive presentation:

• At least 5 symptoms of inattention (for adults) persisting for at least 6 months, causing clinically significant impairment 2, 3
• Symptoms present in at least 2 settings (work and home in this case) 2
• Evidence that symptoms interfere with or reduce quality of functioning (documented work performance decline) 4
• Symptoms present before age 12 (she reports always needing to "work harder than others") 4
• Rule out alternative explanations: thyroid disease, sleep disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use 5

Obtain collateral information from a partner, family member, or close relationship to corroborate childhood and current symptoms 1, 3

First-Line Pharmacotherapy: Stimulants

Stimulants are the most effective treatment for ADHD across all age groups, with the best evidence for improving core symptoms of inattention, organization, and task completion. 1, 6

Mechanism and Efficacy

• Stimulants enhance dopamine and norepinephrine transmission, increasing prefrontal cortex efficiency and optimizing executive and attentional function 1
• They demonstrate superior efficacy compared to non-stimulants for core ADHD symptoms 6, 7

Practical Prescribing Approach

• Start with long-acting formulations (once-daily dosing) to improve adherence and provide consistent symptom coverage throughout the workday 6
• Methylphenidate or amphetamine preparations are both appropriate first-line options 1
• Initial dosing for adults: Start low and titrate based on response and tolerability 2
• Monitor response at 2-4 week intervals, adjusting dose until optimal symptom control is achieved 2

Monitoring and Safety

• Assess cardiovascular status before initiating (blood pressure, heart rate, personal/family cardiac history) 1
• Contraindications include: symptomatic cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, glaucoma, active psychotic disorder, current stimulant abuse 1
• Consider controlled substance agreements and prescription drug monitoring programs to prevent misuse or diversion 3, 5

Second-Line Options: Non-Stimulants

If stimulants are contraindicated, not tolerated, or the patient has comorbid anxiety/depression, consider non-stimulant options:

Atomoxetine

• FDA-approved for adult ADHD with established efficacy in clinical trials 2
• Dosing: Initiate at 40 mg daily, increase after minimum 3 days to target dose of 80 mg daily (morning or divided doses), with maximum of 100 mg daily 2
• Advantages: No abuse potential, less insomnia than stimulants, preferred when comorbid anxiety is present 6, 5
• Important warning: Monitor for suicidal ideation, particularly early in treatment 2

Other Non-Stimulant Options

• Bupropion: Effective for ADHD with comorbid depression 6, 7, 5
• Viloxazine extended-release: First novel non-stimulant approved for adults in two decades, particularly useful with comorbid conditions 8

Multimodal Treatment Components

Medication alone is insufficient; ADHD requires comprehensive management including behavioral strategies and environmental modifications. 2, 7

Behavioral Interventions

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as adjunctive treatment with medication has demonstrated effectiveness 7, 5
• Continue and refine existing compensatory strategies (diaries, reminders, color-coded calendars) 2
• Implement specific organizational systems for work tasks (task lists, time-blocking, breaking complex projects into smaller steps)

Workplace Accommodations

• Request accommodations under ADA if appropriate (extended deadlines, written instructions, quiet workspace, frequent breaks)
• Discuss diagnosis with supervisor if comfortable to facilitate understanding and support

Treatment of Comorbid Conditions

Screen for and address common comorbidities that may complicate treatment response: 6, 7

• Depression and anxiety: If present, consider atomoxetine or bupropion as first-line, or combine stimulants with antidepressants (safe and effective combination) 5
• Sleep disorders: Address sleep hygiene and consider sleep study if symptoms suggest sleep apnea 5
• Substance use: If present, prefer non-stimulant options (atomoxetine, viloxazine, bupropion) 8

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Undertreatment: Titrate stimulants to optimal response, not just minimal improvement 2
• Premature discontinuation: ADHD is a chronic condition requiring long-term management 4, 7
• Ignoring functional impairment: Treatment goal is improved quality of life and functioning, not just symptom reduction 2
• Missing comorbidities: Untreated anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders will limit treatment response 6, 7
• Inadequate follow-up: Schedule regular visits (every 2-4 weeks initially) to monitor response, side effects, and adjust treatment 2, 5

Expected Outcomes

With appropriate treatment, expect significant improvement in:

• Sustained attention during meetings and complex tasks 1, 6
• Task completion and follow-through on multi-step responsibilities 1
• Organization and time management 6
• Work performance and efficiency 7
• Overall quality of life and psychosocial functioning 1, 7