Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Medication Prescription Claims Among Privately Insured Women Aged 15-44 Years - United States, 2003-2015

Amphetamine use for attention deficit hyperactive disorder during breastfeeding and children's neurodevelopmental outcomes: A pilot study

Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) medication use rises among women of childbearing age and during pregnancy. Little is known on the safety of amphetamine stimulants for ADHD treatment during breastfeeding. Most data on the safety of these medications are from recreational abuse of methamphetamine. This study followed children (N = 13) exposed to amphetamine stimulants during breastfeeding. Assessments by Pediatric Quality of Life and Denver Developmental Scale evaluated neurodevelopment and outcomes. Study results showed normal neurodevelopment with no significant adverse effects. Findings suggest amphetamines are likely compatible with breastfeeding; however larger studies are needed.

Prescription Stimulant Use During Pregnancy and Risk of Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children

Importance

Use of medications for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during pregnancy is increasing in the US. Whether exposure to these medications in utero impacts the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children is uncertain.

Objective

To evaluate the association of childhood neurodevelopmental disorders with in utero exposure to stimulant medications for ADHD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included health care utilization data from publicly insured (Medicaid data from 2000 to 2018) and commercially insured (MarketScan Commercial Claims Database data from 2003 to 2020) pregnant individuals aged 12 to 55 years in the US with enrollment from 3 months prior to pregnancy through 1 month after delivery, linked to children. Children were monitored from birth until outcome diagnosis, disenrollment, death, or end of the study (December 2018 for Medicaid and December 2020 for MarketScan).

Exposures

Dispensing of amphetamine/dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate in the second half of pregnancy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and a composite of any neurodevelopmental disorder were defined using validated algorithms. Hazard ratios were estimated comparing amphetamine/dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate to no exposure.

Results

The publicly insured cohort included 2 496 771 stimulant-unexposed, 4693 amphetamine/dextroamphetamine-exposed, and 786 methylphenidate-exposed pregnancies with a mean (SD) age of 25.2 (6.0) years. The commercially insured cohort included 1 773 501 stimulant-unexposed, 2372 amphetamine/dextroamphetamine-exposed, and 337 methylphenidate-exposed pregnancies with a mean (SD) age of 31.6 (4.6) years. In unadjusted analyses, amphetamine/dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate exposure were associated with a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of the neurodevelopmental outcomes considered. After adjustment for measured confounders, amphetamine/dextroamphetamine exposure was not associated with any outcome (autism spectrum disorder: hazard ratio [HR], 0.80; 95% CI, 0.56-1.14]; ADHD: HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.89-1.28; any neurodevelopmental disorder: HR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.81-1.28). Methylphenidate exposure was associated with an increased risk of ADHD (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.12-1.82]) but not other outcomes after adjustment (autism spectrum disorder: HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.62-1.81; any neurodevelopmental disorder: HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.97-1.36). The association between methylphenidate and ADHD did not persist in sensitivity analyses with stricter control for confounding by maternal ADHD.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings in this study suggest that amphetamine/dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate exposure in utero are not likely to meaningfully increase the risk of childhood neurodevelopmental disorders.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Medication Use Trajectories Among Women in the Perinatal Period

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of women of reproductive age are treated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication; however, patterns of ADHD medication use for women in the perinatal period have not been well described.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe ADHD medication use patterns from 1 year before pregnancy to 1 year after delivery, and to describe sociodemographic characteristics and clinical features by medication trajectories.

METHODS

The population-based cohort study included pregnancies in Denmark between 1997 and 2020, from the Medical Birth Register, by women who filled at least one prescription for ADHD medication from 12 months before pregnancy until 12 months after delivery. We applied group-based trajectory modeling to classify women into subgroups based on the identification of heterogeneous ADHD medication treatment patterns, and described the characteristics associated with these groups.

RESULTS

Overall, we included 4717 pregnancies leading to liveborn singletons by 4052 mothers with a mean (standard deviation) age of 27.5 (5.6) years. We identified four treatment trajectories across pregnancy and the postpartum period: continuers (23.3%), discontinuers (41.8%), interrupters who ceased filling prescriptions during pregnancy but resumed postpartum (17.2%), and postpartum initiators (17.7%). Continuers were older at the time of conception, gave birth in more recent years, were more likely to smoke during pregnancy, and used other psychotropic medications during pregnancy. A large proportion of continuers used methylphenidate (89.1%) compared with the other groups (75.9-84.1%) and had switched ADHD medication type during the whole period (16.4% vs. 7.4-14.8%).

CONCLUSION

We found that approximately 60% of women discontinued or interrupted their ADHD medication around pregnancy, and those who continued differed in sociodemographic and clinical factors that may reflect more severe ADHD.

Investigating maternal and neonatal health outcomes associated with continuing or ceasing dexamphetamine treatment for women with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder during pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is becoming more commonly diagnosed in women, consequently, more women of reproductive age are taking ADHD medication, such as dexamphetamine. However, the safety associated with continuing or ceasing dexamphetamine during pregnancy is unclear. This study investigates outcomes associated with the continuation of dexamphetamine during pregnancy compared to those who ceased or were unexposed.

METHODS

A population-based retrospective cohort of women from Western Australia who had been dispensed dexamphetamine during pregnancy and gave birth between 2003 and 2018. Women had either continued to take dexamphetamine throughout pregnancy (continuers, n = 547) or ceased dexamphetamine before the end of the second trimester (ceasers, n = 297). Additionally, a matched (1:1) comparison group of women who were dispensed an ADHD medication prior to pregnancy but not during pregnancy (unexposed) was included in the study (n = 844). Multivariable generalised linear models were used to compare maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

RESULTS

Compared to continuers, ceasers had greater odds of threatened abortion (OR: 2.28; 95%CI: 1.00, 5.15; p = 0.049). The unexposed had some benefits compared to the continuers, which included lower risk of preeclampsia (OR: 0.58; 95%CI: 0.35, 0.97; p = 0.037), hypertension (OR: 0.32; 95%CI: 0.11, 0.93; p = 0.036), postpartum haemorrhage (OR: 0.57; 95%CI: 0.41, 0.80; p = 0.001), neonatal special care unit admittance (OR: 0.16; 95%CI: 0.12, 0.20; p < 0.001) and fetal distress (OR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.54, 0.99; p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

Continuing dexamphetamine throughout pregnancy was not associated with an increase in adverse neonatal and maternal health outcomes compared to ceasing. Ceasing dexamphetamine during pregnancy was associated with increased odds of threatened abortion compared with continuing dexamphetamine. However, this is something that requires further investigation due to the small sample size, difficulties examining timing, and the inability to examine spontaneous abortions. The unexposed showed some benefits compared to the continuers, suggesting that where possible the cessation of dexamphetamine prior to pregnancy may be advisable.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on prescription stimulant use among children and youth: a population-based study

COVID-19 associated public health measures and school closures exacerbated symptoms in some children and youth with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Less well understood is how the pandemic influenced patterns of prescription stimulant use. We conducted a population-based study of stimulant dispensing to children and youth ≤ 24 years old between January 1, 2013, and June 30, 2022. We used structural break analyses to identify the pandemic month(s) when changes in the dispensing of stimulants occurred. We used interrupted time series models to quantify changes in dispensing following the structural break and compare observed and expected stimulant use. Our main outcome was the change in the monthly rate of stimulant use per 100,000 children and youth. Following an initial immediate decline of 60.1 individuals per 100,000 (95% confidence interval [CI] - 99.0 to - 21.2), the monthly rate of stimulant dispensing increased by 11.8 individuals per 100,000 (95% CI 10.0-13.6), with the greatest increases in trend observed among females, individuals in the highest income neighbourhoods, and those aged 20 to 24. Observed rates were between 3.9% (95% CI 1.7-6.2%) and 36.9% (95% CI 34.3-39.5%) higher than predicted among females from June 2020 onward and between 7.1% (95% CI 4.2-10.0%) and 50.7% (95% CI 47.0-54.4%) higher than expected among individuals aged 20-24 from May 2020 onward. Additional research is needed to ascertain the appropriateness of stimulant use and to develop strategies supporting children and youth with ADHD during future periods of long-term stressors.

ADHD medication discontinuation and persistence across the lifespan: a retrospective observational study using population-based databases

BACKGROUND

Although often intended for long-term treatment, discontinuation of medication for ADHD is common. However, cross-national estimates of discontinuation are missing due to the absence of standardised measures. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of ADHD treatment discontinuation across the lifespan and to describe similarities and differences across countries to guide clinical practice.

METHODS

We did a retrospective, observational study using population-based databases from eight countries and one Special Administrative Region (Australia, Denmark, Hong Kong, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, the UK, and the USA). We used a common analytical protocol approach and extracted prescription data to identify new users of ADHD medication. Eligible individuals were aged 3 years or older who had initiated ADHD medication between 2010 and 2020. We estimated treatment discontinuation and persistence in the 5 years after treatment initiation, stratified by age at initiation (children [age 4-11 years], adolescents [age 12-17 years], young adults [age 18-24 years], and adults [age ≥25 years]) and sex. Ethnicity data were not available.

FINDINGS

1 229 972 individuals (735 503 [60%] males, 494 469 females [40%]; median age 8-21 years) were included in the study. Across countries, treatment discontinuation 1-5 years after initiation was lowest in children, and highest in young adults and adolescents. Within 1 year of initiation, 65% (95% CI 60-70) of children, 47% (43-51) of adolescents, 39% (36-42) of young adults, and 48% (44-52) of adults remained on treatment. The proportion of patients discontinuing was highest between age 18 and 19 years. Treatment persistence for up to 5 years was higher across countries when accounting for reinitiation of medication; at 5 years of follow-up, 50-60% of children and 30-40% of adolescents and adults were covered by treatment in most countries. Patterns were similar across sex.

INTERPRETATION

Early medication discontinuation is prevalent in ADHD treatment, particularly among young adults. Although reinitiation of medication is common, treatment persistence in adolescents and young adults is lower than expected based on previous estimates of ADHD symptom persistence in these age groups. This study highlights the scope of medication treatment discontinuation and persistence in ADHD across the lifespan and provides new knowledge about long-term ADHD medication use.

FUNDING

European Union Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme.

Safety profiles of methylphenidate, amphetamine, and atomoxetine: analysis of spontaneous reports submitted to the food and drug administration adverse event reporting system

Background: Methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and Amphetamine are the three most commonly used medications approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, a comprehensive analysis of their safety profiles across various age groups and genders in real-world contexts has yet to be conducted. In this study, a pharmacovigilance analysis was performed using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to examine differences in adverse events between methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and Amphetamine. Methods: From January 2014 to September 2022, FAERS reports listing "Methylphenidate," "Dexmethylphenidate," "Atomoxetine," "Amphetamine," "Lisdexamfetamine," "Dextroamphetamine," and "Methamphetamine" as primary suspects were analyzed after removing duplicate reports. We used the standardized Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) query generalized search for adverse events at the preferred term level based on case reports. After filtering duplicate reports, disproportionality analysis was used to detect safety signals according to the proportional reporting ratio (PRR). In order to delve into potential safety concerns, we undertook a two-step analysis of the data. Initially, the data was segmented based on age cohorts: 0-5 years, 6-12 years, 13-18 years, and individuals aged ≥19 years. Following this, after partitioning the data into males and females within the 0-18 years age group, and similarly for those aged ≥19 years, further analysis was conducted. Results: The pharmacovigilance analysis uncovered substantial safety signals in the standardized MedDRA queries. Methylphenidate was associated with dyskinesia (PRR = 21.15), myocardial infarction (PRR = 12.32), and hypertension (PRR = 8.95) in children aged 0-5, 6-12, and 13-18 years, respectively, as well as neonatal exposures via breast milk (PRR = 14.10) in adults aged ≥19 years. Atomoxetine was linked to hostility/aggression (PRR = 15.77), taste and smell disorders (PRR = 6.75), and hostility/aggression (PRR = 6.74) in children aged 0-5, 6-12, and 13-18 years, respectively, as well as hostility/aggression (PRR = 14.00) in adults aged ≥19 years. Amphetamine was associated with psychosis and psychotic disorders (PRR = 16.78), hostility/aggression (PRR = 4.39), and Other ischaemic heart disease (PRR = 10.77) in children aged 0-5 years, 6-12 years, and 13-18 years, respectively, and hostility/aggression in adults aged ≥19 years (PRR = 9.16). Significant and noteworthy adverse event signals were also identified at the preferred term level. Specifically, methylphenidate was associated with myocardial infarction, acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery dissection, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, growth retardation, self-destructive behavior, suicidal ideation, and completed suicide. Atomoxetine was linked to electrocardiogram QT prolonged, growth retardation, and tic. Amphetamine was recorded for coronary artery dissection, suicidal ideation, and completed suicide. It was observed that male patients, including both children and adults, showed a more significant and frequent occurrence of adverse events compared to females, particularly in terms of cardiac disorders. The intensity and quantity of adverse event signals were distinctly different between the two genders, with males having a higher number of signals. All detected safety signals were confirmed using signals obtained from the disproportionality analysis. Conclusion: This pharmacovigilance analysis demonstrated significant variations in the safety profiles of methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and Amphetamine across different age groups and between different genders. Following an in-depth analysis of the FAERS database, we discerned prominent safety signals. Notably, the strength of the signals associated with coronary artery dissection induced by methylphenidate and amphetamine, as well as those related to suicide, demand particular attention. Consequently, it remains imperative to persist in monitoring these medications, assessing the associated risks, and carrying out comparative studies particularly geared towards ADHD drugs.

Risk of Major Malformations in Infants After First-Trimester Exposure to Stimulants: Results From the Massachusetts General Hospital National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications

PURPOSE/BACKGROUND

The prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adult females is 3% to 4%. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is highly comorbid with other psychiatric disorders such as mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders. For reproductive-aged women, the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with stimulant medications may be considered during pregnancy or breastfeeding, although historically, data are lacking to inform these decisions. The aim of this investigation was to determine the risk of major malformations in infants after first-trimester prescription stimulant exposure in a small but rigorously characterized sample.

METHODS/PROCEDURES

The Massachusetts General Hospital National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications systematically ascertains information from pregnant females including demographic information, medical and psychiatric history, use of prescription medications, and other information relevant to fetal outcomes. Participants provide verbal informed consent and are interviewed twice during gestation and again at approximately 3 months postpartum. The primary outcome of interest is the presence of a major malformation identified within 6 months after birth. Redacted cases of major malformations are reviewed by a dysmorphologist blinded to medication exposure.

FINDINGS/RESULTS

A total of N = 1988 women were eligible for this analysis, including the following exposures: n = 173 to mixed amphetamine salts; n = 40 to lisdexamfetamine; n = 45 to methylphenidate; n = 3 to dexmethylphenidate; and n = 1755 controls. The odds ratio of a major malformation among infants after first-trimester exposure to any stimulant was 0.39 (95% confidence interval, 0.09-1.61) compared with controls. There were no major malformations observed in infants exposed to lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate, or dexmethylphenidate.

IMPLICATIONS/CONCLUSIONS

Although preliminary, this analysis from an ongoing pregnancy registry provides reassurance that these stimulants do not appear to have major teratogenic effects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01246765.

In utero exposure to ADHD medication and long-term offspring outcomes

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication is increasingly being used during pregnancy. Concerns have been raised as to whether ADHD medication has long-term adverse effects on the offspring. The authors investigated whether in utero exposure to ADHD medication was associated with adverse long-term neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes in offspring. The population-based cohort study in the Danish national registers included 1,068,073 liveborn singletons from 1998 to 2015 followed until any developmental diagnosis, death, emigration, or December 31, 2018. Children of mothers who continued ADHD medication (methylphenidate, amphetamine, dexamphetamine, lisdexamphetamine, modafinil, atomoxetine, clonidine) during pregnancy and children of mothers who discontinued ADHD medication before pregnancy were compared using Cox regression. Main outcomes were neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders, impairments in vision or hearing, epilepsy, seizures, or growth impairment during childhood or adolescence. In total, 898 children were exposed to ADHD medication during pregnancy compared to 1270 children whose mothers discontinued ADHD medication before pregnancy. After adjustment for demographic and psychiatric characteristics of the mother, no increased risk of any offspring developmental disorders was found combined (aHR 0.97, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.17) or for separate subcategories. Similarly, no increased risk was found for any sub-categories of outcomes in the negative control or sibling controlled analyses. Neurodevelopment and growth in offspring do not differ based on antenatal exposure to ADHD medication. These findings provide reassurance for women with ADHD who depend on ADHD medication for daily functioning and who consider continuing medication in pregnancy.

Prevalence trends and individual patterns of ADHD medication use in pregnancy in Norway and Sweden, 2010-2019

PURPOSE

This study aimed to describe recent trends in ADHD medication use in pregnancy in Norway and Sweden, including prevalence, individual characteristics, and patterns of use.

METHODS

We studied ADHD medication use (amphetamine, dexamphetamine, methylphenidate, atomoxetine, lisdexamfetamine, guanfacine) by year and age in pregnancies from 2010 to 2019 identified from the medical birth registers (gestational age ≥ 22 weeks) linked to prescribed drug registers (Norway, N = 577,116; Sweden, N = 1,118,988). We compared characteristics of those who used any ADHD medication in pregnancy to no use in pregnancy. Discontinuation was defined as no use after first trimester.

RESULTS

ADHD medication use increased from 2010 to 2019 by 3.0 users per 1000 pregnancies in Norway (from 2.5 to 5.5/1000) and by 6.3 per 1000 in Sweden (from 1.6 to 7.9/1000), mainly driven by methylphenidate and since 2015 by lisdexamfetamine. Medication use has increased among pregnant individuals of all age groups, with higher use among the youngest. Pregnant individuals who used ADHD medication were less likely to be married/cohabiting, more likely be nulliparous and to smoke. They had particularly high use of co-medication with antidepressants, anxiolytics/hypnotics, and opioids: 42% in Norway and 65% in Sweden used at least one additional class of psychotropic medication. Most individuals discontinued ADHD medication in pregnancy (85% Norway, 78% Sweden).

CONCLUSION

ADHD medication use during pregnancy increased in Norway and Sweden in the last decade. However, discontinuation rates during pregnancy were high. Those who used ADHD medication had more risk factors for pregnancy complications including low parity, smoking, and other psychotropic drug use.

Maternal ADHD and Perinatal Prescription Stimulant Use

OBJECTIVE

To describe patterns and predictors of perinatal prescription stimulant use.

METHODS

We used MarketScan^® commercial claims data (2013-2018) and a repeated cross-sectional study design to assess perinatal use of prescription stimulants. Clinical/demographic characteristics were compared across cohorts of women who continued versus discontinued stimulant treatment at various stages of pregnancy. Associations were tested for significance using chi-square tests (categorical variables) and independent t-tests (continuous variables).

RESULTS

Out of 612,001 pregnancies, 15,413 involved pre-pregnancy stimulant use. Of these, stimulant treatment was discontinued prior to conception in 6,416 (42%), discontinued during trimester 1 in 5,977 (39%), and continued into later trimesters in 3,020 (19%). Compared with pregnancies involving stimulant discontinuation prior to conception, those that continued into pregnancy occurred in women who were older (29.9 vs. 28.9 years) and had more severe ADHD (3.1 vs. 1.8 ADHD-related billing claims).

CONCLUSIONS

There is considerable heterogeneity in the management of ADHD during pregnancy.

Rise, and pronounced regional variation, in methylphenidate, amphetamine, and lisdexamfetamine distribution in the United States

Background

The prescription stimulants methylphenidate, amphetamine, and lisdexamfetamine are sympathomimetic drugs with therapeutic use. They are designated in the United States as Schedule II substances, defined by the 1970 Controlled Substances Act as having a “high potential for abuse”. Changing criteria for the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in 2013 and the approval of lisdexamfetamine for binge eating disorder in 2015 may have impacted usage patterns. This report compared the pharmacoepidemiology of these stimulants in the United States from 2010–2017.

Methods

Distribution of amphetamine, methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine were examined via weights extracted from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Automated Reports and Consolidated Ordering System (ARCOS). Median stimulant Daily Dosage per patient was determined for a regional analysis. The percent of cost and prescriptions attributable to each stimulant and atomoxetine in Medicaid from the “Drug Utilization 2018 - National Total” from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid was determined.

Results

There was a rise in amphetamine (+67.5%) and lisdexamfetamine (+76.7%) from 2010–2017. The change in methylphenidate (−3.0%) was modest. Persons/day stimulant usage was lower in the West than in other US regions from 2014-2017. There was a negative correlation (r(48) = −0.43 to −0.65, p < .05) between the percent Hispanic population per state and the Daily Dosage/population per stimulant. Methylphenidate formulations accounted for over half (51.7%) of the $3.8 billion reimbursed by Medicaid and the plurality (45.4%) of the 22.0 million prescriptions. Amphetamine was responsible for less than one-fifth (18.4%) of cost but one-third of prescriptions (33.6%). Lisdexamfetamine’s cost (26.0%) exceeded prescriptions (16.3%).

Conclusion

The rising amphetamine and lisdexamfetamine distribution may correspond with a rise in adult ADHD diagnoses. Regional analysis indicates that stimulant distribution in the West may be distinct from that in other regions. The lower stimulant distribution in areas with greater Hispanic populations may warrant further study.

Changes in Provider Type and Prescription Refills Among Privately Insured Children and Youth With ADHD

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to understand associations between age and health care provider type in medication continuation among transition-aged youth with ADHD.

METHOD

Using an employer-sponsored insurance claims database, we identified patients with likely ADHD and receipt of ADHD medications. Among patients who had an outpatient physician visit at baseline and maintained enrollment at follow-up 3 years later, we evaluated which ones continued to fill prescriptions for ADHD medications.

RESULTS

Patients who were younger at follow-up more frequently continued medication (77% of 11-12 year-olds vs. 52% of 19-20 year-olds). Those who saw a pediatric provider at baseline and follow-up more frequently continued to fill ADHD medication prescriptions than those who saw a pediatric provider at baseline and non-pediatric providers at follow-up (71% vs. 53% among those ages 15-16 years at follow-up).

CONCLUSION

Adolescents and young adults with ADHD who changed from pediatric to exclusively non-pediatric providers less frequently continued to receive ADHD medications.

Assessment of Stimulant Use and Cardiovascular Event Risks Among Older Adults

IMPORTANCE

Use of stimulants continues to increase among older adults for a variety of indications. An association between stimulant use and increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) events has been established among children and young adults, but few studies have explored the risk of CV events among older patients, a group with increased baseline risk.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between stimulant use and risk of CV events among older adults.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This propensity score-matched cohort study, with 4 nonusers per 1 user, was conducted from July 1, 2017, to June 27, 2019, using data from population-based health care databases from Ontario, Canada, from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2016. Included individuals were outpatients aged 66 years or older.

EXPOSURES

Initiation of a prescription stimulant.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was a CV event, defined as a composite of emergency department visit or hospitalization for myocardial infarction, stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), or ventricular arrhythmia. Risk of CV event was assessed at 30 days, 180 days, and 365 days after initiation of stimulants from Cox proportional hazard models. A secondary analysis assessed each component of the primary outcome separately.

RESULTS

Among 6457 older adults who initiated a prescription stimulant (ie, the exposed group) and 24 853 older adults who did not initiate such treatment (ie, the unexposed group), the distribution of baseline patient characteristics was well balanced after matching (sex: 3173 [49.1%] men vs 12 112 [48.7%] men; standardized difference, 0.01; median [IQR] age: 74 [69-80] years vs 74 [69-80] years; standardized difference, 0.01). Within this cohort, there were 932 CV events during the 365-day follow-up (5.11 events per 100 person-years among individuals who initiated stimulants). In the primary analysis, stimulant initiation was associated with increased risk of CV events at 30 days (hazard ratio [HR], 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1-1.8) but not at 180 days (HR, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.9-1.6) or 365 days (HR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.6 to 1.8). In the secondary analysis, stimulant initiation was associated with increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias (HR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.1-8.7) and stroke or TIA (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.1) at 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This cohort study found that stimulant use was associated with an early increase in CV events among older adults with no association for long-term use.

Prevalence and determinants of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication use during pregnancy: Results from the Quebec Pregnancy/Children Cohort

AIMS

The use of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications has grown over the past decade among pregnant women, but these treatments are not without risk. Updated prevalence of ADHD medication use and whether prescribed dosages follow guidelines are needed. The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence of ADHD medication use among pregnant women-dosages and switches-and identify determinants of ADHD medication use.

METHOD

A population-based longitudinal cohort study within the Quebec Pregnancy/Children Cohort (QPC). Women aged 15-45 years old covered by the RAMQ prescription drug plan for at least 12 months before and during pregnancy from 1998 to 2015. ADHD medication exposure was assessed before and during pregnancy. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) for determinants of ADHD medication use during pregnancy with generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

Among 428,505 included pregnant women, 1,130 (0.26%) used ADHD medication. A 14-fold increase in the prevalence of ADHD medication use in pregnant women was observed, from 1998 (0.08%) to 2015 (1.2%). Methylphenidate was the most prevalent medication at 70.1%. ADHD medication fillings were at optimal dosage 91.8% of the time based on guidelines and 18.1% of women switched to another ADHD medication class during gestation. Main determinants of ADHD medication use during pregnancy were psychiatric disorders (aOR 2.19; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.57, 2.96), mood and anxiety disorders (aOR 1.74; 95% CI 1.32, 2.24), and calendar year.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of pregnancies exposed to ADHD medications has increased similarly to the increase reported in other countries between 1998 and 2015. In addition to the current literature, the use of ADHD medications during pregnancy is consistent with Canadian guidelines recommendations on dosage.

Sterol Biosynthesis Inhibition in Pregnant Women Taking Prescription Medications

Sterol biosynthesis is a critical homeostatic mechanism of the body. Sterol biosynthesis begins during early embryonic life and continues throughout life. Many commonly used medications, prescribed >200 million times in the United States annually, have a sterol biosynthesis inhibition side effect. Using our high-throughput LC-MS/MS method, we assessed the levels of post-lanosterol sterol intermediates (lanosterol, desmosterol, and 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC)) and cholesterol in 1312 deidentified serum samples from pregnant women. 302 samples showing elevated 7-DHC were analyzed for the presence of 14 medications known to inhibit the 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase enzyme (DHCR7) and increase 7-DHC. Of the 302 samples showing 7-DHC elevation, 43 had detectable levels of prescription medications with a DHCR7-inhibiting side effect. Taking more than one 7-DHC-elevating medication in specific combinations (polypharmacy) might exacerbate the effect on 7-DHC levels in pregnant women, suggesting a potentially additive or synergistic effect. As 7-DHC and 7-DHC-derived oxysterols are toxic, and as DHCR7-inhibiting medications are considered teratogens, our findings raise potential concerns regarding the use of prescription medication with a DHCR7-inhibiting side effect during pregnancy. The use of prescription medications during pregnancy is sometimes unavoidable, but choosing a medication without a DHCR7-inhibiting side effect might lead to a heathier pregnancy and prevent putatively adverse outcomes for the developing offspring.

Cohort Change in the Prevalence of ADHD Among U.S. Adults: Evidence of a Gender-Specific Historical Period Effect

Objective: To document inter- and intra-cohort changes in adult ADHD and examine whether changes vary by gender. Method: We analyze data from the 2007 and 2012 U.S. National Health Interview Survey. Results: The prevalence of ADHD among adults aged 18 to 64 years increased from 3.41% in 2007 to 4.25% in 2012. As expected, patterns of inter- and intra-cohort change varied by gender. At younger ages, inter-cohort gender differences are more distinct due to a spike in prevalence among boys/men born in or after 1980. Consistent with a gender-specific historical period effect, recent intra-cohort increases among women have narrowed the gender gap. Conclusion: The gender gap in the prevalence of ADHD among adults decreased by 31.1% from 2007 to 2012 due to increased prevalence among adult women of all ages. We discuss these results in relation to diagnostic practice, adult health and well-being, data limitations and needs, and directions for future research.

Maternal ADHD medication use during pregnancy and the risk of ADHD in children: Importance of genetic predispositions and impact of using a sibling analysis

Attention deficit with hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications in pregnancy would be associated with ADHD in children, however, estimates can be confounded by genetic predispositions and environmental factors related to the mother-child pair. We aim to quantify the risk of ADHD in children associated with ADHD medication exposures during pregnancy. A prospective cohort study and sibling analysis conducted within The Quebec Pregnancy/Child Cohort (QPC). All full-term singleton live births covered by the provincial prescription drug insurance in Quebec from 1998 to 2015 were included. ADHD medication exposure during pregnancy was defined according to trimester of use and class-specific medication. ADHD in children was defined as having at least one diagnosis or one prescription filled for an ADHD medication. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to calculate crude and adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in the overall cohort, the sub-cohort and the sibling analysis. Of 166,047 full-term singleton live births included, 25,454 (15.3%) had ADHD. In the overall cohort, maternal exposure to ADHD medication during pregnancy was associated with ADHD in children (aHR= 1.96, 95% CI 1.22-3.15). In the ADHD pregnant women sub-cohort (aHR= 1.56; 95% CI 0.93-2.62) and the sibling control analysis (aHR= 1.14; 95% CI 0.62-1.98), ADHD medications during pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of ADHD in children. Our findings suggest that in utero exposure to ADHD medications was not associated with an increased risk of ADHD in children. This suggests that the association is due to genetic and/or family environmental factors.

Fetal methylphenidate exposure induced ADHD-like phenotypes and decreased Drd2 and Slc6a3 expression levels in mouse offspring

Methylphenidate (MPD) is used as a first-line treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The number of prescriptions for ADHD patients is increasing, suggesting that the number of fertile women using such medication might be also increasing. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of MPD exposure during the fetal period on infant development, behavior, learning, and memory in mice. Expression levels of candidate genes associated with ADHD were also determined in the brain of pups born to MDP-treated dams who were administered MPD orally at a dose of 2.5, 7.5, or 15 mg/kg daily from gestational day 1 to the day before delivery. Offspring aged 6-8 weeks were subjected to the spontaneous locomotor activity, elevated plus-maze, and passive avoidance tests and therapeutic treatments with MPD or atomoxetine. Fetal MPD exposure induced ADHD-like phenotypes, such as hyperactivity and impulsivity, in mouse offspring, which were suppressed by treatment with MPD and atomoxetine. These mice showed decreased Drd2 and Slc6a3 expression levels in the brain, which are often observed in ADHD model animals. Our results suggest that continuous use of MPD during pregnancy induces ADHD phenotypes in the offspring.

Parental ADHD in pregnancy and the postpartum period - A systematic review

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders worldwide, and in the majority of patients persists into adulthood. However, it remains unclear how maternal ADHD could affect pregnancy and birth as well as early mother-(father)-child interaction. There are several studies investigating the effect of depressed or anxious parents on parent-child-interactions in early infancy, but data about the influence of parental ADHD is lacking although it is a common mental disorder in parents. Additionally, the prescription of stimulant and other ADHD medication for adult ADHD patients is rising due to improved diagnostic procedures and a greater awareness of this disorder in adulthood among psychiatrists and psychologists. However, this leads to increased numbers of treated ADHD women that wish to have children or experience unplanned pregnancies while taking stimulant medication. In our systematic review we aimed at analysing the current evidence for the association of maternal ADHD with pregnancy and birth outcomes, pregnancy risks and health behaviour in pregnancy, as well as the association of parental ADHD with early parent-child interaction and early child development in the first 3 years. Furthermore, we reviewed recent evidence on the risks of stimulant and non-stimulant treatment for ADHD in pregnancy and lactation.

Cardiovascular Effects of ADHD Therapies: JACC Review Topic of the Week

Although the prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been stable over the past 3 decades, prescriptions of sympathomimetic stimulants have steadily increased in the United States. This study consisted of a systematic review of PubMed articles screened for ADHD medications and potential cardiovascular toxicity as well as nondrug strategies for managing ADHD. The cumulative body of data showed that ADHD medications cause modest elevations in resting heart rate and blood pressure. Other adverse effects reported with ADHD stimulants included arrhythmia, nonischemic cardiomyopathy, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, and sudden death. However, such reports did not imply causation, and there was a paucity of randomized trial evidence addressing long-term safety of ADHD medications, particularly among adults. Further studies are essential to clarify the risks and benefits of ADHD stimulant medications and to explore nonpharmacological options, including regular exercise and omega-3 fatty acids, which could be helpful for improving ADHD symptoms.

Motivation of Physicians to Use and Recommend Apps for the Treatment of Haemophilia

Digitalization of health care and the availability of suitable end devices lead to an increase in the use of telehealth applications. Most research on telehealth focuses on patients or organizations (like hospitals), while the role of physicians in this context is often neglected. In case of serious and chronic diseases, they play two major roles in the use of telehealth. Firstly, they may influence the patient's decision whether to use it at all (if more than one option is available, they may also influence the patient's choice of software). Secondly, if there is a need for a physicians' participation (eg, in telecare), an adoption decision by the physician to use the system is necessary. We develop a model to understand a physician's motivations to recommend the use of telehealth software to patients and to adopt it himself. The results demonstrate that physicians recommend telehealth based on their own use intention and the perceived performance improvements in patient treatment. Further, their own use intention is dependent on the usefulness of the system for their work. Potential disadvantages like decreased patient autonomy or cost of the system use do not influence the physician's decisions.

Trends in stimulant dispensing by age, sex, state of residence, and prescriber specialty - United States, 2014-2019

BACKGROUND

Stimulant medications are commonly prescribed for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; however, they also have high potential for diversion and misuse. We estimated national stimulant dispensing trends from 2014 to 2019 and differences in dispensing by age, sex, state, prescriber specialty, payor type, patient copay, and stimulant type.

METHODS

We calculated rates of stimulant dispensing using IQVIA National Prescription Audit (NPA) New to Brand, NPA Regional, and NPA Extended Insights data, which provide dispensing estimates from approximately 49,900 pharmacies representing 92 % of prescriptions dispensed in the United States. Average annual percent change (AAPC) from 2014 to 2019 was analyzed using Joinpoint regression.

RESULTS

From 2014 to 2019, the national annual rate of stimulant dispensing increased significantly from 5.6 to 6.1 prescriptions per 100 persons. Rates differed by prescription stimulant type, with increases occurring among both amphetamine-type stimulants and long-acting stimulants. Rates among females (AAPC = 3.6 %; P = 0.001) and adults aged 20-39 years (AAPC=6.7 %; P = 0.002), 40-59 years (AAPC=9.7 %; P < 0.001), and ≥60 years (AAPC = 6.9 %; P = 0.001) increased significantly during the study period. Stimulant dispensing rates varied substantially across states, ranging from 1.0 per 100 in Hawaii to 13.6 per 100 in Alabama.

CONCLUSIONS

National stimulant dispensing rates increased from 2014 to 2019, driven by notable increases among females and adults aged ≥20 years. These trends should be considered when prescribing stimulants given growing concerns over prescription stimulant diversion, misuse, and related health harms.

The female side of pharmacotherapy for ADHD-A systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

This comprehensive review examined sex differences in prescription rates and efficacy or effectiveness of pharmacotherapy treatment in girls and women with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while identifying gaps in the scientific knowledge on this topic.

METHOD

A rigorous electronic database search was carried out in order to identify all published studies on female-specific effects of stimulants and non-stimulants in the treatment of ADHD. In total, 2672 studies were screened of which 21 studies (seven on prescription rates, 14 on effects of pharmacotherapy) met the inclusion criteria and were included for analysis.

RESULTS

In all seven studies on ADHD prescription rates, girls received significantly less prescriptions than boys, a difference however no longer seen in adults with the exception of one study. Each of the 14 studies on effectiveness / efficacy found at least one sex-difference in the effects of ADHD pharmacotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Several sex-differences are demonstrated in the prescription, usage and efficacy /effectiveness of both stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD pharmacotherapy. A single daily use of MPH may possibly not be optimal for girls with ADHD and ATX may be a promising medication for girls and women with ADHD. The robustness of this result requires further investigation.

ADHD Medication Use During Pregnancy and Risk for Selected Birth Defects: National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1998-2011

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of, and maternal characteristics associated with, ADHD medication use before and during pregnancy, and associations between early pregnancy ADHD medication use and risk for 12 selected birth defects. Method: We used data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (1998-2011), a U.S. population-based case-control study examining risk factors for major structural birth defects. Results: There was an increase in ADHD medication use from 1998-1999 (0.2%) to 2010-2011 (0.5%; p < .001). Early pregnancy ADHD medication use was more commonly reported by mothers of infants/fetuses with gastroschisis (crude odds ratio [cOR]: 2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.2, 6.9]), omphalocele (cOR: 4.0, 95% CI = [1.2, 13.6]), and transverse limb deficiency (cOR: 3.3, 95% CI = [1.1, 9.6]). Conclusion: ADHD medication use before and during pregnancy was rare, but the prevalence of use has increased over time. In this analysis, early pregnancy ADHD medication use was associated with three of 12 selected birth defects.

Are ADHD Screeners Safe to Use?

Objective: To investigate whether administration of a common ADHD screener followed by generic feedback would affect college students' subsequent symptom reports and cognitive performance. Method: Participants were 157 college students randomly assigned to an experimental group-which completed the World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale screener and received standard generic feedback-or a control group. All participants then completed a battery of cognitive tasks and a long-form symptom rating scale. Results: The experimental and control groups did not differ significantly in terms of their subsequent symptom reports or their performance on any cognitive tasks. These null results remained after considering possibilities such as unequal group variances and interactions between screening effects and gender. Conclusion: When administered judiciously alongside generic feedback in a group setting, this common ADHD screener does not appear to affect college students' self-perceptions or cognitive abilities.

Little evidence for late-onset ADHD in a longitudinal sample of women

OBJECTIVE

Individuals with late-onset symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are presenting to providers at increasing rates. Recent birth-cohort studies reveal evidence for late-onset ADHD, but conclusions are challenged by measurement methods as well as presence of participant impairment and psychiatric comorbidities. We examined the occurrence of late-onset ADHD in a small but thoroughly investigated group of diverse (47% white) women followed from childhood to adulthood.

METHOD

From a larger, 16-year longitudinal study, a subsample of young women without childhood ADHD (N = 87) was assessed at four time points between childhood and adulthood via a multimethod, multiinformant approach. We used a stepped diagnostic procedure to identify those who initially met symptom criteria for ADHD after childhood and then evaluated them for remaining DSM ADHD diagnostic criteria, including impairment, cross-situational symptoms, and comorbid diagnoses.

RESULTS

Of 87 participants, 17 met ADHD symptom criteria after childhood. Fifteen showed no evidence of childhood onset, 10 showed clear evidence of impairment, and nine had cross-situational symptoms. Of these nine, all but one showed clinically significant co-occurring or preexisting psychiatric diagnoses and/or substance use that might account for ADHD symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Although 19.5% of women from our subsample without childhood ADHD met symptom criteria for ADHD during adolescence/adulthood, only one showed the needed combination of impairment and cross-situational symptoms without significant co-occurring mental health problems. It is possible that uncomplicated cases of adult ADHD do arise, yet we find little supporting evidence herein. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Trends in use of prescription stimulants in the United States and Territories, 2006 to 2016

BACKGROUND

Stimulants are considered the first-line treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the US and they are used in other indications. Stimulants are also diverted for non-medical purposes. Ethnic and regional differences in ADHD diagnosis and in stimulant use have been identified in earlier research. The objectives of this report were to examine the pharmacoepidemiological pattern of these controlled substances over the past decade and to conduct a regional analysis.

METHODS

Data (drug weights) reported to the US Drug Enforcement Administration's Automation of Reports and Consolidated Orders System for four stimulants (amphetamine, methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and methamphetamine) were obtained from 2006 to 2016 for Unites States/Territories. Correlations between state level use (mg/person) and Hispanic population were completed.

RESULTS

Amphetamine use increased 2.5 fold from 2006 to 2016 (7.9 to 20.0 tons). Methylphenidate use, at 16.5 tons in 2006, peaked in 2012 (19.4 tons) and subsequently showed a modest decline (18.6 tons in 2016). The consumption per municipality significantly increased 7.6% for amphetamine and 5.5% for lisdexamfetamine but decreased 2.7% for methylphenidate (all p < .0005) from 2015 to 2016. Pronounced regional differences were also observed. Lisdexamfetamine use in 2016 was over thirty-fold higher in the Southern US (43.8 mg/person) versus the Territories (1.4 mg/person). Amphetamine use was about one-third lower in the West (48.1 mg/person) relative to the Northeastern (75.4 mg/person, p < .05) or the Midwestern (69.9 mg/person, p ≤ .005) states. States with larger Hispanic populations had significantly lower methylphenidate (r(49) = -0.63), lisdexamfetamine (B, r(49) = -0.49), and amphetamine (r(49) = -0.43) use.

CONCLUSIONS

Total stimulant usage doubled in the last decade. There were dynamic changes but also regional disparities in the use of stimulant medications. Future research is needed to better understand the reasons for the sizable regional and ethnic variations in use of these controlled substances.