Risk of Addiction to ADHD Therapies

Risk of Addiction to ADHD Therapies

4 years ago

As a Maryland and Ohio physician who has dedicated most of his professional career to treating addiction disorders, I’m always cognizant when evaluating a new patient for potential of developing tolerance and addictions to therapies that are offered. I do believe that most patients with ADHD are misunderstood and maligned as to being prone to abuse their treatment. Once the proper screening is done at the onset most patients are not prone to abuse their therapies and in fact are reluctant to take the appropriate doses of medication such as stimulants prescribed to them. Amidst the pandemic, our current culture of hyper alertness on developing addictions from prescribed medication‘s at times seems to inhibit proper seeking of treatment and solving problems. Daily, I face patients that I have been shamed and put down by relatives,  coworkers, and even pharmacy staff when they are trying to fill their prescriptions, as if they are doing something wrong!. Many studies starting from childhood do in fact demonstrate that a proper diagnoses in addressing the range of ADHD disorders reduces the risk of substance abuse later in life.

Detrimental effects of THC on ADHD
Detrimental effects of THC on ADHD
3 years ago

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana. Studies have shown that THC can have detrimental effects on individuals with attention-def...

How do I know if I have ADHD?
How do I know if I have ADHD?
7 years ago

One of the more challenging aspects of my my work as a psychiatrist is when patients with good intentions come in to the office with a self-diagnosis of ADHD.  They are completely convinced af...

With ADHD therapy, one size doesn't fit all!
With ADHD therapy, one size doesn't fit all!
7 years ago

I saw the young man for the first time last month. He could not sit still for more than a few seconds and was constantly fidgeting. His life was a classic example of setbacks and unfulfilled dreams...