Prescribed Stimulant Use for ADHD Rises Steadily
Abstract
Introduction
The study examined the prescribed stimulant use for ADHD in children and youth in Finland between 2006 and 2016.
Methods
Age- and sex-specific population statistics were used as denominator in prevalence measures. Data on prescribed stimulants in children and youth aged 4-17 from 2006 to 2016 were extracted from the nationwide prescription registry maintained by the Social Insurance Institution of Finland.
Results
The prescribed stimulant use for ADHD increased steadily. Altogether, 15 036 children and youth aged 4-17 (prevalence 1,8 %) received prescribed stimulant medication in Finland in 2016 (boys 2,9 %, girls 0,6 %). Stimulant use among boys had increased fivefold and sixfold among girls between 2006 and 2016. In 2016, the use of stimulants was most prevalent in boys aged 9-13 (4,3-4,8 %). Differences between the Hospital Districts were also observed: the prevalence of prescriptions of ADHD drugs ranged from 1,0 % to 3,8 %.
Discussion
Use of stimulants for children and adolescents with ADHD has increased steadily, and varies by age, gender and region. Collection of data on indications, duration of the treatments, adherence, possible adverse effects and other drug-related problems and outcomes should be systematic in Finnish health care.
Authors
Miika Vuori, Eeva Aronen, Andre Sourander, Jaana E. Martikainen, Tuulia Jantunen, Leena Saastamoinen
Additional Information
- Peer-Reviewed: yes.
- Open Access: yes.
- Cite as: Vuori, M., Aronen, E., Sourander, A., Martikainen, J., Jantunen, T., & Saastamoinen, L. (2018). Aktiivisuuden ja tarkkaavaisuuden häiriön (ADHD) lääkkeiden käyttö on yleistynyt. Duodecim, 34(15), 1515–1522. https://www.duodecimlehti.fi/duo14431
