Stimulant Medication for ADHD in Opioid Maintenance Treatment

Abstract

These findings show some promise with regard to the safety and utility of central stimulant medications for patients with ADHD who are receiving opioid maintenance treatment. Our study has methodological limitations, and systematic, well-designed clinical investigations are needed to increase the knowledge base.

Patterns and profiles of methylphenidate use both in children and adults

“…Patterns of use of methylphenidate and also a higher percentage of OMT. The literature concerning MPH treatment for OMT patients is scarce, and conclusions concerning evidence for the benefits of treatment with ADHD drugs in patients with SUD have been divergent [46,47,[50][51][52]. It is also possible that a high proportion of patients drop out after one dispensing because of a lack of efficacy of MPH.…”

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms are Common in Patients in Opioid Maintenance Treatment

“…Although ADHD medications have been shown efficient for improving ADHD symptoms in adults [18], evidence is less promising regarding the efficacy in individuals with SUD [19, 20], including those in OMT [21-23]. National guidelines regulate treatment with central stimulants for patients in OMT in a number of countries due to concern of combining these medications with strong opioids, thus restricting access to this treatment [22-24].…”

Perceived Self-Control is Related to Mental Distress in Patients Entering Substance Use Disorder Treatment

“…However, there are several concerns about the safety and utility for individuals with any SUD, including those who receive OMT medication. Research results are mixed but suggest less efficacy for individuals with SUD (138,142), including those in OMT (143)(144)(145). National guidelines regulate treatment with central stimulants for patients in OMT in a number of countries due to concern of combining these medications with strong opioids, thus restricting access to central stimulant treatment (88,144,145).…”

“…Research results are mixed but suggest less efficacy for individuals with SUD (138,142), including those in OMT (143)(144)(145). National guidelines regulate treatment with central stimulants for patients in OMT in a number of countries due to concern of combining these medications with strong opioids, thus restricting access to central stimulant treatment (88,144,145). Until 2016, it was prohibited to prescribe central stimulants to patients in OMT in Norway (without special permission) because both medications are registered as narcotics.…”