Prevalence and characteristics of adolescents patients with co-occurring ADHD and substance dependence.

Full Abstract

Estimates of co-morbidity of SUD and ADHD in addiction treatment settings range from 30% to 50%. The Schedule II psychostimulant medications, methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine, generally considered to be safe and effective in treating ADHD in adolescent patients, may be risky for an SUD population since individuals with SUD may have a higher likelihood of abusing or diverting the medications. One hundred sixty-two adolescent patients admitted to a residential addictions treatment program were administered a structured interview concerning ADHD and psychostimulant abuse as part of the clinical psychological evaluation administered by the staff psychologist. Results indicate 31% of patients have current ADHD diagnosis and 20% reported illicit diversion of Schedule II medication. One-third of entire adolescent patient population reported prior psychostimulant abuse. Results are discussed in terms of appropriate treatment for adolescents with co-occurring substance abuse or dependence and ADHD.

Author information

Author/s: Gordon, Susan Merle (SM); Tulak, Frank (F); Troncale, Joseph (J);

Affiliation: Caron Foundation, Galen Hall Rd, Box 150, Wernersville, PA 19565, USA. sgordon(-atsign-)caronfoundation.org

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Journal of addictive diseases (J Addict Dis), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2004-; vol 23 (issue 4) : pp 31-40

Dates: Created 2004/09/01; Completed 2005/02/07; Revised 2008/05/12;

PMID: 15339712, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00)

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