Title : Pharmacologic approaches to attention and alertness after traumatic brain injury
Abstract:
Psychopharmacologic agents are best prescribed based on the underlying diagnosis rather than the symptoms. Before prescribing medications for attention and alertness after brain injury, possible contributing agents should be withdrawn if possible. Other therapeutic approaches such as treatment of sleep disorders and cognitive rehabilitation should be undertaken. The evidence will be presented for stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate, amphetamine, and modafinil; acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine; medications for sleep disorders such as melatonin and trazodone; and other drugs such as amantadine in the treatment of disorders of attention and alertness following brain injury.
