Risk of Addiction to ADHD Therapies

Risk of Addiction to ADHD Therapies

3 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.

Turbulent times lead to strong emotions
Turbulent times lead to strong emotions
5 years ago

It's okay to feel anxious, sad and restless these days! It might point you to some corners of your mind and psyche that need working on. If you are a human anywhere on this planet you feel the unse...

How do I know if I have ADHD?
How do I know if I have ADHD?
6 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...

ADHD and anger, strategies for management
ADHD and anger, strategies for management
6 years ago

Low frustration tolerance is a hallmark of the ADHD sufferers. The scenario goes something like this: You are trying to focus on completing your expense report, and the guy from the next cubicle in...