No association between stimulant treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and substance use

Référence

Molina BSG, Kennedy TM, Howard AL, et al. Association between stimulant treatment and substance use through adolescence into early adulthood. JAMA Psychiatry 2023;80(9):933-941.

Sommaire

This study addresses whether stimulant treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in childhood increases or decreases the risk of subsequent substance abuse. The investigators analyzed follow-up data obtained from a randomized trial of medical and behavioral therapy for ADHD that started in 1994 with follow-up continuing until the patients' mean age of 25 years. Study participants (n = 579; 61% were White, 80% were male) included children aged 7 to 9 years who met standard diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Self-reported data on substance use through adolescence and early adulthood occurred for 81.3% of participants at least once in adulthood. No attempts occurred to verify prescription history or laboratory-based drug level determinations. In addition, individuals who did not provide follow-up may be more likely to have a history of substance abuse. After multiple adjustments for potential confounders, no significant association occurred between stimulant treatment and the risk of subsequent heavy alcohol use, marijuana use, tobacco use, and other substance use.