Research indicates that medications are crucial for enhancing the quality of life for individuals with ADHD. However, the authors point out the necessity for additional support beyond just medication.
A study from the University of Southampton has shown that while medications are vital for improving the quality of life for those with ADHD, there is a need for additional support apart from pharmacological treatments.
Published today (8 August 2024) in The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the findings underscore the potential consequences of shortages in specific ADHD medications.
“It’s extremely worrying to consider the effect on individuals who are unable to obtain their medications due to supply issues or other circumstances,” says Professor Samuele Cortese from the University of Southampton, who is the senior author of the study.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is mainly associated with symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These primary symptoms can adversely affect social relationships, family interactions, work, education, and the ability to carry out everyday responsibilities.
“Individuals with ADHD often report a lower quality of life in aspects such as work performance, social and family relationships, and self-esteem compared to those without the condition,” states Dr. Alessio Bellato, a lecturer in Psychology at the University of Southampton and the lead author of the study.
“Our research demonstrates the significant role that medications play in enhancing the quality of life for those affected by ADHD.”
The researchers performed the first comprehensive review and meta-analysis focusing on how stimulant (like amphetamines and methylphenidate) and non-stimulant (such as atomoxetine) medications for ADHD affect quality of life.
They analyzed 17 placebo-controlled trials involving more than 5,000 participants. The trials were sourced from the MED-ADHD dataset, which is the largest compilation of ADHD medication trials, established by Professor Cortese and his international collaborators.
Results indicated that both stimulant and non-stimulant medications significantly outperformed placebo in enhancing quality of life. However, it was also discovered that while these medications had a medium to high impact on core ADHD symptoms, their effect on quality of life was relatively modest, falling in the small-to-medium range.
Co-author Professor David Coghill from the University of Melbourne noted, “This difference reveals that for many individuals, solely addressing core symptoms with medication is unlikely to sufficiently address the broader impact of ADHD on their quality of life. Further research is necessary to explore how combining medication with other treatment strategies might enhance overall well-being, especially in cases where medication is unavailable.”
“There’s a need for more research to better comprehend how these medications influence quality of life,” Dr. Bellato adds. “It’s possible that alleviating the main ADHD symptoms (like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity) enables better management of tasks, which could lead to improved educational and professional results. Additionally, medications might help stabilize emotional fluctuations, fostering emotional well-being and boosting self-esteem.”
“Given that ADHD medications may not be suitable, effective, or well-accepted by all individuals with the disorder, further research is essential to assess alternative treatments, including psychological strategies.”
