Psychopharmacology of ADHD
CE Information
2.0 CE credits (2.0 pharmacology)Completion Time
2 hours, 3 minutesAvailable Until
December 31, 2025Posted By
PESI
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Overview
Specialties
Psychiatric / Mental HealthClinical Topics
PharmacologyStephanie Shafer, MSN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, will deliver an advanced, up-to-date review of stimulant (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) and non-stimulant (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine) medications for ADHD. The session will focus on understanding each medication’s mechanism of action, how they differ, and ways they may be combined synergistically.
You’ll learn how these treatments alter brain chemistry and function to relieve ADHD symptoms, deepening your appreciation of their therapeutic potential. The discussion will also center on recognizing presenting symptoms and evaluating treatment outcomes.
By the end of the talk, you’ll gain a robust understanding of the neurobiological basis of ADHD and comprehensive knowledge of how current medications work. You’ll be equipped to deliver personalized care that improves patients’ daily functioning and overall quality of life.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the key neurobiological factors involved in ADHD, including neurotransmitter systems, brain regions implicated, and how they contribute to the symptoms of the disorder.
- Evaluate the pharmacological treatments available for ADHD, including stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) and non-stimulant medications (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine).
- Differentiate ADHD from common differentials and tailor pharmacotherapy to individual patients.
- Analyze the effectiveness of ADHD medications while also considering potential side effects.
Speakers
Stephanie L. Shafer, MSN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, works in a large private practice in Lansing, MI, providing clinical services to children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive tendencies, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, and Personality Disorders. She has achieved considerable success treating these conditions. This success has largely resulted from the development of a structured model of care that includes a significant focus on clinical and background histories, identifying psychosocial stressors, and evaluating prior medical and psychiatric diagnoses (and treatment regimens associated with these conditions). This approach and model of medical management is essential to the effective delivery of psychiatric medications to this population.
CE Information
This activity offers 2.0 CE credits (2.0 pharmacology) to attendees.
Accredited by ANCC, ACCME.
Credit eligibility by state, board, and more information can be found here: Psychopharmacology of ADHD: Deepening Clinician Insight into Medication Strategies
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