Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): characteristics, diagnosis and treatment with methylphenidate

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder that usually arises during childhood, with prevalence estimates ranging from 2 to 18% globally and three times higher in males than in females. The diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed by recognizing excessive inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity in a child, before the age of 12, which impair their functioning or development, while current treatments include pharmacological, psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational interventions. In this sense, the aim is to discuss the characteristics and diagnosis, as well as to explore treatment with methylphenidate in ADHD symptoms, addressing the beneficial and harmful effects of the drug. The methodology is a bibliographical study, of the exploratory type with a qualitative approach, which aims to organize ideas in the following stages (formulating the problem, choosing the topic to be investigated, drawing up the work plan, formulating the objectives, identifying, locating and obtaining sources that are capable of providing the appropriate data for the desired research, reading the material obtained, logical analysis and interpretation of the data and final writing of the text).  Finally, it can be concluded that the main symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, but they are not exclusive to the disorder. One of the major challenges is the substantial impact on individuals throughout their lives, highlighting the importance of identifying and addressing this condition in childhood. Effective management of ADHD symptoms in adults and children can mitigate the detrimental effects of the disorder on various aspects of daily functioning and mental well-being. Methylphenidate has emerged as a viable treatment option; however, it is important to recognize that its use carries potential risks and considerations.