Know the Facts About ADHD Medication

Myth: ADHD medication is addictive

Fact: Therapeutic use of stimulant medication for ADHD prevents addiction

Types of ADHD Medication

There are two classes of stimulant medications for ADHD, methylphenidates and amphetamines. Each of these classes of medication are available in long and short acting formulations. ADHD makes it harder for brain cells to send messages to each other.  Stimulant medication helps the brain function more efficiently by adjusting levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Common examples of medications prescribed are Ritalin and Concerta (methylphenidates) as well as Adderall and Vivance (amphetamines).

In addition to stimulant medications, there are also non stimulant medications. These can also be beneficial for treating ADHD, especially for those who can’t take a stimulant.  Examples of non-stimulant medications are Straterra and Intuniv.

Antidepression medications are sometimes used for treating ADHD, especially if there is a co-existing condition. Wellbutrin is an example of an antidepressant that is sometimes used alone or along with a stimulant medication.

“ADHD medication, especially stimulants, dramatically reduce the core symptoms of ADHD, inattention, distractibility, hyperactivity and disorganization. We know this from decades of research, including hundreds of studies published every year on the efficacy of ADHD medications.”

- Walt Karniski, MD

Is ADHD medication addictive?

There is no evidence that using stimulants leads to addiction when prescribed for a person with ADHD and used in oral therapeutic doses. A Swedish study found that ADHD medication is associated with a lower risk of substance related events. 

There is no evidence that the use of a stimulant medication for ADHD in childhood led to addictive disorders in adolescence or adulthood.

“Both classes of stimulants, methylphenidates and amphetamines are controlled substances. This means that they have the potential to lead to abuse and addiction. Because of this, some assume that it is risky to take these drugs. In truth it is the opposite. People with ADHD who take these medications as prescribed are less likely than their untreated counterparts to abuse drugs. Put another way, treating ADHD effectively is a powerful protection against substance abuse.”

- Carl Sherman, PhD

“The risk of getting addicted to ADHD medication is very low if you have ADHD and are using your medication as prescribed.”

- Robert Olivardia, PhD

Non-Medical ADHD Medication Use

Although taking stimulant medication as prescribed will not lead to addiction, stimulants CAN be misused in a way that leads to addiction or can be given to others. Maybe you have heard about stimulants being used for non-medical purposes, especially by young college students who use them to improve grades or to stay awake studying. While this is a problem, it is not related to the prescribed use of these medications by patients with ADHD. This has contributed to the perception that these medications cause addictions. When used properly, a stimulant medication can change the life a person with ADHD for the better.

Benefits of ADHD Medication

Stimulant medication reduces the symptoms of ADHD by 70-90% in children and adults and is a front-line treatment for individuals with ADHD.

Medication not only helps with concentration and impulsivity, it can also help people feel calmer. This leads to better family interactions, more school and job success, better driving skills and less delinquency, substance abuse, criminal activity and suicide.

ADHD medications reduce the risk of:

• Death by 19%

• Overdose by 50%

• Substance abuse by 50%

• Car accidents by 38%

In short, medication can greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals with ADHD, leading to higher self-esteem, self- advocacy and whole life success.

Long Term Effects of ADHD Medication on the Brain

ADHD medications have been studied for over 88 years. Findings from brain imaging studies suggest that long term ADHD medication use has lasting and positive effects on the brain.

ADHD is a disorder caused by a chemical imbalance in certain parts of the brain important for attending, focusing, learning and memory. Three areas of the brain are smaller in children with ADHD, which impact their ability to plan, focus, learn and retain information.  ADHD medication enhances neurotransmitter’s activity in these areas of the brain which improve learning and behavior. 

ADHD doesn’t go away for most people. Children and adults treated with medication experience a dramatic reduction in symptoms. The benefits of ADHD medications are highly significant, and the consequences of untreated ADHD are serious.

Does everyone with ADHD need medication?

An ADHD diagnosis doesn’t mean that you have to start taking medication. There can be side effects of stimulant medications such as insomnia, decreased appetite, headaches or irritability. In many cases this can be managed by changing the medication or the dose. 

“ADHD medication can be a game changer for many people with ADHD. The key is to work closely with your prescriber, keeping track of any side effects and taking time to fine tune things like dosage, whether you’re taking extended or instant release. The first medication you try could work well or it may take several more trials. Your health and well- being are worth it.”

- Robert Olivardia, PhD

“No, treating ADHD with stimulant medication does not create addicts.”

- Russell Ramsey, PhD

Ultimately, medication is an important tool that can reduce ADHD symptoms, but it is also important to develop skills in managing your ADHD.

Schedule a FREE consultation with an ADHD coach for support in creating your ADHD toolbox!

Resources

• What are the Long -Term Effects of ADHD medication on the Brain- Walt Karniski, MD. http://additudemag.com 

• ADHD Medication: What Do I Need to Know- Robert Olivardia, PhD.  http://understood.org 

• The Truth About ADHD Medication- Carl Sherman, PhD.

• Does Stimulant Medication Cause Drug-Dependence?-

• Timothy E. Wilens, MD. http://additudemag.com

• The Therapeutic Use of Stimulant Medication for ADHD Prevents Addiction- Stephen Faraone, PhD. http://adhdawarenessmonth.org