Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among chronic methamphetamine users: Frequency, persistence, and adverse effects on everyday functioning

Abstract

Aims Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is widely regarded as a common comorbidity of methamphetamine (MA) dependence, but the frequency, persistence, and real-world impact of ADHD among MA users is not known. Methods Four hundred individuals with MA use disorders within 18 months of evaluation and 355 non-MA using comparison subjects completed a comprehensive neuropsychiatric research battery, including self-report measures of everyday functioning. Results In logistic regression models adjusting for potential confounds, lifetime diagnoses of ADHD as determined by a structured clinical interview were significantly more prevalent among the MA participants (21%) versus comparison subjects (6%), particularly the hyperactive and combined subtypes. MA use was also associated with an increased persistence of combined subtype of ADHD into adulthood. Among the MA users, lifetime ADHD diagnoses were uniquely associated with greater concurrent risk of declines in instrumental activities of daily living, elevated cognitive symptoms in day-to-day life, and unemployment. Conclusions Findings indicate that ADHD is prevalent among chronic MA users, who are at increased risk for persistence of childhood diagnoses of ADHD into their adult years. ADHD also appears to play an important role in MA-associated disability, indicating that targeted ADHD screening and treatment may help to improve real-world outcomes for individuals with MA use disorders.

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Pharmacologic Management of Methamphetamine Dependence, Relapse Prevention, Chronic Methamphetamine-Related, and Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders in Post-Acute Settings

“…The systematic search did not identify any RCTs for the treatment of adult attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with comorbidity of methamphetamine-related disorders. Adequate treatment is important because of the high prevalence of this comorbidity, the particular vulnerability for methamphetamine-associated psychoses, and the more pronounced neurocognitive impairments [70,72,75].…”

Determination of Trace Amounts of Methamphetamine in Biological Samples by Hollow Fiber Liquid-phase Microextraction Followed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography

“…Methamphetamineis used for treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and exogenous obesity [1][2][3][4][5][6] .The structure and chemical properties of target compound are summarized in Table 1 7 .Methamphetamine increases the amount of the neurotransmitter dopamine, leading to high levels of that chemical in the brain. Dopamine is involved in reward, motivation, the experience of pleasure, and motor function.…”

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Aggression, and Illicit Stimulant Use

“…Those with ADHD have been reported to be more likely to use methamphetamine and to use it more frequently than those without ADHD (Jaffe et al, 2005; Obermeit et al, 2013). We also found major effects and interactions for crack use with ADHD.…”