Global Trends in ADHD Medication Use: Multiple Contexts and Rising Concerns-A Narrative Review
Marcin Rzeszutek1, Tomasz Wolańczyk1
1Department of Child Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 61, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|October 29, 2025
Summary
Global ADHD medication use has risen since 2000, particularly in children and adolescents, with methylphenidate remaining common. Increased use raises concerns about access, diagnosis, and misuse.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition often managed with stimulant and non-stimulant medications.
- Global trends in ADHD pharmacotherapy require comprehensive analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review global trends in ADHD medication utilization since 2000.
- To identify demographic patterns and changes in drug preferences.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of 31 publications.
- Analysis of five national drug utilization registers.
Main Results:
- Worldwide increase in ADHD medication prevalence, except in the Netherlands.
- Highest prevalence observed in older children and adolescents.
- Shift in gender ratios, with females showing faster increases in adult populations.
- Methylphenidate remains the most prescribed, with growing use of lisdexamfetamine and guanfacine.
Conclusions:
- Variations in ADHD medication use are influenced by guidelines, access, and cultural factors.
- Rising utilization necessitates monitoring for equitable access, overdiagnosis, and misuse.
- Ensuring safe, rational, and equitable ADHD care globally is paramount.
Keywords:
amphetamineatomoxetineconsumptiondexamfetamineguanfacinelisdexamfetaminemethylphenidateprevalencestimulantsutilizationMore Related Videos
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