Reported Problems and Adherence in Using ADHD Medications Among Adolescents and Their Caregivers

To identify and describe medication-related problems reported by adolescents with ADHD and their caregivers, and to examine how demographic factors are associated with reported problems and medication adherence.

Adolescents aged 11 to 17 years with ADHD and their caregivers were recruited from two pediatric clinics in North Carolina. Adolescents completed interviews while caregivers completed questionnaires. Bivariate analyses and multivariable linear regressions were conducted.

Among 90 adolescents taking ADHD medication, 91% reported at least one medication-related problem. The most common problems included appetite suppression, dislike of medication, difficulty remembering doses, and feeling "out of it." Adolescent- and caregiver-reported problems were moderately correlated (r = 0.43, p < 0.001). Older adolescents reported fewer problems with ADHD medications than younger adolescents (standardized beta=-0.27, p<0.05). Adolescents with higher trust in their providers also reported fewer problems (standardized beta= -0.22, p< 0.05). Adolescent- and caregiver-reported adherence were significantly correlated (r = 0.30, p < 0.005). Caregivers with more years of education were more likely to report lower adolescent ADHD medication adherence (standardized beta = -2.6, p<0.01), whereas adolescents who disliked taking medication reported significantly lower adherence (standardized beta= -0.22, p <0.05).

Medication-related problems and adherence challenges are common among adolescents with ADHD. Factors such as age, provider trust, caregiver education, and medication attitude influence these outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of discussing medication experiences, side effects, and treatment preferences with adolescents and caregivers during ADHD medication management.