ADHD prescriptions jump 18% year-on-year, researchers found

Julia Bryson & PA Media

BBC News, Yorkshire

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Prescriptions for medications to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have increased by 18% each year since the community's pandemic, a new study found.

Experts from Huddersfield University and Aston University suggested there is an upward trend in prescribing conditions in various regions of the UK.

This could be because awareness of ADHD has increased through social media, encouraging more people to seek diagnosis and treatment, the project found.

However, experts warned that “false information on these platforms can lead to misconceptions about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.”

The second reason behind the increase in prescriptions could be “a strong link between the effects of the (covid) pandemic and the worsening of ADHD symptoms,” the researchers said.

The study, published in the journal BMJ Mental Health, calculated that UK prescriptions increased from 25.17 items per 1,000 population in 2019/20 to 41.55 items from 25.17 items per 1,000 population in 2023/24 to an average annual increase of 18% nationwide.

English prescription data were used for five ADHD drugs currently approved at the National, Regional, and NHS Integrated Care Committee (ICB) level.

These drugs are stimulants for methylphenidate, such as ritalin, concerto and delmosate. Dexamphetamine and Lisdexamphetamine, and two non-stimulants – atomoxetine and guanfacin.

Regional variations

This study found that methylphenidate was the most prescribed drug therapy, and lisdexamphetamine showed the highest growth rate (55% per year).

He said there was an upward trend, but there was a region-wide variation in the “average annual increase from 13% in the Northeast and Yorkshire regions to 28% in the London region.”

Experts said the use of ADHD medications in children and adults is supported by “substantial evidence,” including improving quality of life and ability and reducing substance misuse.

People with ADHD are known to suffer from carelessness, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and may struggle to focus on a specific task or suffer from extreme fidgety.

Dr. Ulrich Muller-Sedgwick, ADHD champion at the Royal College of Psychiatrist, said people with this condition accessed timely and effective assessments and “appropriate treatment continues.”

“Adequate diagnosis and care, including medication and rational adjustments, can provide significant benefits to people's health and help them reach their full potential in schools, colleges, or workplaces.

“We know that expanding ADHD services through targeted investments will help ensure that people receive the critical care they need,” he added.

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