THESES
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms and sleep disorders (Abstract)*. Dissertation. Campinas, 2006.
Sérgio Nolasco Hora das Neves**
OBJECTIVE: This study examined the relationship between Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sleep disorders to characterize clinical features and associated problems.
METHOD: In the first paper we review the researches literature about sleep disorders in children with ADHD with and without psychostimulant treatment. In the second paper we performed a record review of 50 consecutive children and adolescents aged 4 to 17 years with ADHD who do not have mental retardation or pervasive developmental disorders.
RESULTS: Infants with sleep disorders were associated with development of ADHD in later childhood. Significant relationships were found between sleep disorders and pharmacotherapy (p<0.01); comorbidity (p<0.01); and greater adherence to treatment prescribed for symptoms of ADHD (p<0.05).
CONCLUSION: Sleep disorders evaluation should be considered before starting drug treatment for ADHD because diagnostic criteria for ADHD based on DSM-IV or ICD-10 do not differentiate between children with and without sleep disorders. Assessment for sleep disorders may provide a new treatment opportunity for some ADHD children. Future research is needed to clarify the relationship between sleep disorders and ADHD; as well as the effects of stimulants on sleep in ADHD childr
Key words: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, sleep disorders, sleep, child, adolescent.
Publication Dates
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Publication in this collection
02 Aug 2006 -
Date of issue
June 2006