Psychoactive substance use in patients diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: an exploratory study

Introduction Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was originally treated as a neurodevelopmental that occurs mainly in children and tends to diminish or disappear with age, but we now know symptoms persist into adulthood over 50% of ADHD patients. Undiagnosed individuals often turn psychoactive substance minimize the negative aspects functioning improve quality life. Methods The study conducted online using random sampling through Facebook group administered by physicians targeted patients diagnosed ADHD. naturalistic exploratory, therefore no hypothesis made. 438 correctly completed questionnaires were received. Analysis results showed people substances relatively frequently. Results most commonly used stimulants include alcohol, marijuana, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), amphetamine/methamphetamine, psilocybin. In population, methylphenidate is drug among After treatment psychostimulants, majority respondents note decrease hyperactivity disorder, especially male Conclusion It necessary perform proper diagnostics actively look for who tend use substances.