Two new studies from Karolinska Institutet shed light on the usage of ADHD medication.
The findings, published in The Lancet Psychiatry and JAMA Psychiatry, reveal surprising trends in how patients use these medications and the associated risks.
Discontinuing ADHD Medication: A Common Trend
Over half of teenagers, young adults, and adults stop their ADHD medication within the first year. This rate is slightly lower for children, but still significant at 35%.
This trend is consistent across several countries, including Australia, Denmark, Hong Kong, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, the U.K., Sweden, and the U.S.
The reasons for stopping medication early might include side effects or lack of effectiveness.
The highest drop-off occurs at 18-19 years, a critical transition period from adolescent to adult psychiatry.
Denmark’s Distinct Approach
In Denmark, only 18% of children stop taking ADHD medication within a year, compared to a 35% average elsewhere.
Denmark’s lower prescription rates suggest that medication is primarily given to those with severe ADHD.
Long-Term Use and Cardiovascular Risks
Another study involving over 275,000 Swedish ADHD patients shows that long-term and higher-dose ADHD medication is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension and arterial disease.
The risk increases by about 4% annually, with the most significant rise in the initial years of treatment. However, the risk is only significant with doses exceeding 1.5 times the average daily dose.
These findings suggest the need for regular monitoring of ADHD patients for cardiovascular symptoms, especially those on higher doses over an extended period.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to ADHD Treatment
These studies highlight the complexities of ADHD medication use. While early discontinuation of medication is common and poses a barrier to effective treatment, especially among young adults, long-term use at high doses can increase cardiovascular risks.
It’s crucial for healthcare professionals to balance these factors, considering the benefits and potential risks on an individual basis and ensuring regular follow-up for long-term users.
These findings also call for greater awareness and support during the critical transition from adolescent to adult psychiatry.
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The research findings can be found in The Lancet Psychiatry.
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