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Author Philippa Roxby, a Health Reporter, reported on a study suggesting that drug treatment can aid individuals newly diagnosed with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) by reducing their risk of substance misuse, suicidal behavior, transport accidents, and criminality. These risk factors are associated with common ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity and distractibility. With approximately 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide thought to be affected by this disorder and increasing diagnoses, the findings published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) highlight the broader potential benefits of drug treatment, assisting patients in deciding whether to initiate medication according to the researchers.
Individuals with ADHD experience a different brain functioning compared to others, with symptoms including difficulties concentrating, sitting still, high energy levels, and impulsivity. Despite the rise in the number of people seeking assistance, the disorder is not becoming more prevalent. A BBC investigation last year found extended wait times for assessments in the UK. Diagnoses are only made if symptoms significantly impact an individual’s life. While the most commonly prescribed stimulant drugs help manage day-to-day symptoms, limited evidence exists regarding their long-term efficacy on behavior, igniting debates on their safety due to side effects like headaches, appetite loss, and sleep disturbances.
The BMJ study focused on 148,500 individuals aged six to 64 with ADHD in Sweden, with 57% undergoing drug treatment, predominantly being prescribed methylphenidate (Ritalin). The study, conducted by researchers from Southampton University and the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, revealed that taking ADHD medication was associated with decreased rates of first-time instances of suicidal behavior (17%), substance misuse (15%), transport accidents (12%), and criminal behavior (13%). For recurrent events, ADHD medication was linked to reductions of 15% for suicide attempts, 25% for substance misuses, 4% for accidental injuries, 16% for transport accidents, and 25% for criminal behavior, highlighting the potential benefits of drug treatment in mitigating risks.
Professors and experts in the study pointed out the challenges in accessing appropriate medication for ADHD in many countries, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment in preventing adverse outcomes like self-medication, poor mental health, injury, and incarceration. While the study contributes to understanding the benefits of ADHD drugs, it did not evaluate medication adherence or varying dosages
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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