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Methylphenidate and Dextroamphetamine Abuse in Substance‐Abusing Adolescents
Author(s) -
Williams Robert J.,
Goodale Leslie A.,
ShayFiddler Michele A.,
Gloster Susan P.,
Chang Samuel Y.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
the american journal on addictions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.997
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1521-0391
pISSN - 1055-0496
DOI - 10.1080/10550490490483053
Subject(s) - dextroamphetamine , methylphenidate , substance abuse , stimulant , psychiatry , bupropion , amphetamine , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder , medicine , psychology , pathology , smoking cessation , dopamine
The prevalence of methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine misuse and abuse was examined in 450 adolescents referred for substance abuse treatment. Twenty three percent reported nonmedical use of these substances and six percent were diagnosed as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine abusers. Abuse was more common in individuals who were out of school and had an eating disorder. Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine abuse appears to be much less common than abuse of most other substances. It does occur, however, and parents and schools need to exert greater control over the dispensing of these medications. Physicians are advised to prescribe non‐stimulant medications (eg, bupropion) when treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in substance‐abusing individuals.