ADHD Medication Prescribing Patterns in Scotland
Author Information
Author(s): Radley Andrew, Melia Barry, Maciver Donald, Rutherford Marion, Boilson Marie
Primary Institution: Directorate of Public Health, NHS Tayside, Dundee, Scotland; and Population Health and Genomics, University of Dundee Medical School, Scotland
Hypothesis
This study aimed to analyze prescribing patterns for medications typically used to treat ADHD in adolescents and adults in Scotland.
Conclusion
Despite an increase in ADHD medication prescriptions over time, many individuals, especially adults, are not receiving the medication they may need.
Supporting Evidence
- Prescriptions for ADHD medications increased by 233.2% from 2010 to 2019.
- 73% of adolescents and 91% of adults with estimated ADHD prevalence were not prescribed medication in 2019.
- Regional disparities in prescription rates were observed, with some areas showing very low treatment rates.
Takeaway
The study looked at how many people in Scotland are getting medicine for ADHD. Even though more people are getting prescriptions, many still aren't getting the help they need.
Methodology
Data was extracted from the NHS Scotland Prescribing Information System for prescriptions in 2019, analyzing patterns across regions and estimating ADHD prevalence levels.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from geographic discrepancies in service provision and access to ADHD diagnostic assessments.
Limitations
The data does not capture medications dispensed via hospital services or private prescriptions, which could lead to underestimations of medication use.
Participant Demographics
The study included 7806 adolescents aged 10-19 years and 4998 adults aged 20-59 years.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.33–1.39 for adolescents; 95% CI 0.17–0.18 for adults
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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