My patient has partial response to a stimulant - what do I add?

The decision to combine ADHD medications should follow a clear hierarchy: (1) confirm the monotherapy agent has been optimized to an adequate dose for an adequate duration, (2) verify that apparent...

Which stimulant + non-stimulant combinations have evidence?

The decision to combine ADHD medications should follow a clear hierarchy: (1) confirm the monotherapy agent has been optimized to an adequate dose for an adequate duration, (2) verify that apparent...

How does the combination strategy differ based on the comorbidity profile?

The decision to combine ADHD medications should follow a clear hierarchy: (1) confirm the monotherapy agent has been optimized to an adequate dose for an adequate duration, (2) verify that apparent...

What's the evidence for stimulant + alpha-2 agonist vs. stimulant + atomoxetine?

The decision to combine ADHD medications should follow a clear hierarchy: (1) confirm the monotherapy agent has been optimized to an adequate dose for an adequate duration, (2) verify that apparent...

Pharmacology

When Should I Add a Second ADHD Medication, and Which Combination?

Questions this summary answers

When should I add a second ADHD medication, and which combination?
My patient has partial response to a stimulant - what do I add?
Which stimulant + non-stimulant combinations have evidence?
How does the combination strategy differ based on the comorbidity profile?
What's the evidence for stimulant + alpha-2 agonist vs. stimulant + atomoxetine?

Go Deeper

This summary distills key findings. For the full clinical discussion with complete citations, explore the source lessons.

Primary source

Non-Stimulant MedicationsCombination Strategies & Third-Line Agents

Also covered in

Comorbidity IThe Master Clinical Algorithm

Last updated: 2026-04-12

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When Should I Add a Second ADHD Medication, and Which Combination?