BACKGROUND:Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition affecting attention, impulse control and emotional regulation across the lifespan. Although pharmacological treatment is often effective, many patients benefit from additional psychological and lifestyle-based interventions that support daily functioning. OBJECTIVE:The aim of this article is to provide an overview of evidence-based non-pharmacological strategies for ADHD that may assist patients in general practice. DISCUSSION:ADHD management typically involves a multimodal approach combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Psychological approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and behavioural parent training can support executive functioning, emotional regulation and adaptive coping. Environmental supports, including school-based interventions and organisational strategies, may improve functioning. Lifestyle factors such as sleep, exercise and regular routines also influence symptom management. General practitioners play an important part in psychoeducation, early intervention and referral to appropriate psychological or allied health services.
BACKGROUND:Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is an atherogenic, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-like particle whose concentrations, mostly genetically determined, are elevated in about 20% of individuals. It is a major and under-recognised independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and aortic valve stenosis. OBJECTIVE:To review current evidence, international recommendations and future directions around testing and management of elevated Lp(a). DISCUSSION:Among other high-risk groups, measuring Lp(a) is recommended in people with ASCVD or aortic valve stenosis, especially if they are of young-onset, familial, unusually severe or progressive. Indeed, some international guidelines advocate measuring Lp(a) in all adults as part of cardiovascular risk assessment. While specific Lp(a)-lowering therapies are not yet available, risk-reducing measures for people with raised Lp(a) include addressing absolute ASCVD risk by diet and lifestyle measures, along with pharmacological LDL-cholesterol reduction. Aspirin might also have a role in primary prevention. Lp(a)-lowering therapies that act by preventing its formation are the subjects of ongoing clinical trials focused on cardiovascular outcomes, the first of which is expected to report in late 2026.
BACKGROUND:Artificial intelligence (AI) is thought by many to likely underpin the next revolution in clinical medicine. The rapidly evolving terminology in AI - including terms such as 'generative AI', 'machine learning' and 'natural language processing' - can present a barrier to clinical adoption. OBJECTIVE:The aim of this article is to give a non-technical overview of AI and its medical applications, with particular emphasis on large language models. DISCUSSION:The term 'AI' suggests semantic understanding. This impression is reinforced by text output eerily similar to human writing. However, AI has not yet become intelligent in the common understanding of that word. The apparent semantic understanding is not actually there. Knowing this is crucial to avoiding misapplications of this nevertheless revolutionary technology.
BACKGROUND:As demand for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments increases, Australian governments are relaxing the requirements for general practitioners (GPs) to prescribe Schedule 8 psychostimulants. Depending on state or territory legislation, GPs will likely increase their involvement in the assessment and management of children and adults with ADHD. OBJECTIVE:This article summarises the medicolegal issues that might affect GPs when initiating, continuing and monitoring ADHD medications in children and/or adults. DISCUSSION:Psychostimulants are restricted medications that carry risks of misuse and dependence. GPs must comply with state and territory prescribing laws and the requirements of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Patients must be carefully assessed and warned of risks. Treatment via telehealth can raise medicolegal issues, given inherent limitations of the online environment, the requirement to verify patients' identity and to ensure that a genuine therapeutic need exists. Treatment in children can be especially complex when separated parents disagree. GPs need to understand how to manage these challenging and emotive situations.
