Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and substance use: Prevalence, subtypes, drug preference, and legal problems
Almodovar-Sanchez, W.; Castaing-Lespier, P.; Torres-Martin, A.I.; Franco, L.
Boletin de la Asociacion Medica de Puerto Rico 99(2): 114-118
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-4849 Document Number: 703048
The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in a treatment-seeking, substance-dependent population and to determine ADHD subtypes, referral sources, drug preferences, and associated legal problems. A total of 75 randomly selected patients from a substance abuse clinic were evaluated in order to determine the comorbidity of adult ADHD and Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Of these subjects, 24 met the criteria for one of the four subtypes of ADHD for an estimated prevalence of 32%. The major reported substances of abuse were cocaine, alcohol, and nicotine. The most common referral sources included the criminal justice system and primary care physicians. Of the subjects diagnosed with ADHD and SUD, 62% reported having legal problems. The findings of this study concur with current literature indicating that ADHD has a high prevalence in the treatment-seeking, substance-dependent population.
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