Malcolm is a 9-year-old male in the 4th grade at the public elementary school. Malcolm has recently been diagnosed with ADHD, combined presentation. Malcolm struggles with being fidgety and hyperactive; he often gets into trouble at school for blurting out answers, getting out of his desk when he should not be, and hitting other children when upset. Malcolm also has a hard time focusing on anything other than video games at home. His parents report homework takes “all night” though it should only take 30 minutes. Malcolm has assigned chores but often gets distracted. For example, Malcolm was to take out the trash but got distracted in the driveway while taking out the trash and left the full bag in the driveway. He often misplaces the combination code for the lock on the house door.
In Week 5, you were assigned by Faculty to argue either the pro (for) or con (against) for a particular medication. You were also provided information for a patient case study scenario. Week 5 was your opportunity to conduct research for this debate.
This week, you will present and defend your assigned stance (pro or con) and specific medication for your patient case study scenario with your peers. Within the debate, you will also share your perspective on why the alternative medication class would not be appropriate for the patient case scenario.
Support your answers with evidence-based, peer-reviewed scholarly literature.
Note: APA style format with citations and references will apply.
As a reminder, these were the assigned medications:
Pro Con
Amphetamine Amphetamine
Methylphenidate Methylphenidate
Alpha Adrenergic Agonist Alpha Adrenergic Agonist
Non-Stimulant Non-Stimulant
Post your response detailing your argument for the following:
• What is the proposed mechanism of action of the medication(s)? Why might this be appropriate for the patients?
• What are the advantages or disadvantages to your class of medication (options for different administration, length of duration, etc.)?
• What are the advantages or disadvantages to the other medication options?
• What possible side effects or considerations need to be evaluated?