Trend in medicines use for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents (2010-2019)

Abstract

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder characterised primarily by three core symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed childhood psychiatric disorders, with a worldwide prevalence of between 3% and 5%, and between 6% and 7% in the Spanish population. The aim of the study is to analyse the trend in the consumption of drugs used for the treatment of ADHD between 2010-2019 in Castilla y León.

Methods: Epidemiological registry study of all dispensing in pharmacies in Castilla y León between 2010 and 2019 to patients under 19 years of age, of active substance N06BA04 (methylphenidate), N06BA09 (atomoxetine), N06BA12 (lisdexamfetamine), N06BA07 (modafinil) and C02AC02 (guanfacine). Data on drug use were obtained from the information system for the pharmaceutical provision of Castilla y León, CONCYLIA. Frequencies in absolute values and the corresponding percentages were calculated. Student’s t-test was used to estimate differences between continuous variables and Pearson’s Chi-square test for categorical variables, while the trend in consumption was analysed using the Cochran-Armitage test.

Results: ADHD medication was dispensed annually to 1.77% of the population, with consumption being more than three times higher in boys than in girls (2.69% vs 0.81%; p=0.001). The age group with the highest peak use was 10-14 years with 3.42%. Methylphenidate was the drug used by the highest percentage of the population (2.44%) followed by lisdexamfetamine (0.37%).

Conclusions: Approximately 2 out of every 100 people aged 0-19 years were treated with some ADHD medication, mainly methylphenidate, in Castilla y León between 2010 and 2019.

Key words: Pharmacoepidemiology, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Adolescent, Child, Comorbidity, Methylphenidate, Maturity, Prevalence.