Treatment of Non-Psychiatric Comorbidities in Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, but in practice it rarely occurs alone. Psychiatric, neurological, and even physical comorbidities occur alongside it. These complications may influence the diagnosis of the disorder, the choice of appropriate treatment, and long-term health outcomes. In this study, we described the most common of these in people with ADHD: epilepsy, tics, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, chronic kidney disease, respiratory problems, and musculoskeletal disabilities. We review both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Our main emphasis is on individualized approaches that both address ADHD symptoms and do not affect patient safety. Our goal in this review is to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of these comorbidities and demonstrate that how much coordinated, multidisciplinary care is needed to truly optimize patient care.