The new ADHD algorithm in the TreatGx medication decision support software helps clinicians to more accurately dose ADHD medications.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder characterized by an ongoing pattern of behavioral symptoms that include inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Although ADHD is a complex disorder and its etiology is not yet completely understood, it is treatable.
ADHD is the most common behavioral disorder in children. Most cases of ADHD are diagnosed when children are 6 to 12 years old and, unfortunately, many of these children will continue to have symptoms and impairment through adolescence and into adulthood. ADHD affects concentration, learning, and memory and may lead to academic failure, failed relationships, and troubled work relationships. People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.
ADHD can be managed in children through educational support, advice, and support for families and affected children, as well as medication if required. ADHD management in adults often involves medication and psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy. ADHD medications can help someone with the condition concentrate better, be less impulsive, feel calmer, and learn and practice new skills.
Although medications for ADHD are effective, there are marked differences between the ways people respond to these medications, how much they need to take and how easily they tolerate the medication. Due to this variability and lack of reliable predictors of medication response, treatment is often determined “empirically”, that is through gradually increasing the medication and through trial and error of different medications. An individual’s genetic make-up and personal information may underlie such differences in ADHD medication response and precision prescribing can be used for personalizing such therapies.
The ADHD algorithm in the TreatGx medication decision support software helps clinicians personalize ADHD medications by providing medication options and dosing for both adults and children. The TreatGx ADHD algorithm incorporates updates from the latest, evidence-based ADHD guidelines, including the CADDRA (Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance) 2018 guidelines and the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) 2018 guidelines. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications, as well as short- and long-acting formulations allow flexibility in finding the safest and most effective medication for each patient. TreatGx uses all relevant genetic information and individual patient factors such as weight and kidney function to enable personalized prescribing.
For example, TreatGx helps clinicians to accurately dose atomoxetine (Strattera), a non-stimulant ADHD medication. Initial doses, titration schedules, and maximum doses are based on the patient’s weight and adjusted to the nearest capsule size. Additional adjustments are included based on CYP2D6 phenotype as well as interacting medications such as CYP2D6 strong inhibitors. As with all our medications, renal and hepatic factors, contraindications and other drug interactions are also taken into account.