Prescriptions for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications have surged in England, with an average yearly increase of 18% since the COVID-19 pandemic. New findings, published in BMJ Mental Health, suggest that this increase reflects rising public and professional awareness of ADHD, possibly influenced by social media platforms and the broader impact of the pandemic. However, the research also uncovers significant regional disparities in prescription rates, pointing to inequalities in access to care.
ADHD: A Global Concern
ADHD affects millions worldwide, with an estimated global prevalence of 7% among children and similar rates reported in symptomatic adults. Treatment typically includes five licensed medications: three stimulants—methylphenidate, dexamfetamine, and lisdexamfetamine—and two non-stimulants, atomoxetine and guanfacine. These medications play a critical role in ADHD management, especially when psychological or behavioral therapies are unavailable.
The study highlights that, while the rise in prescriptions may represent improved diagnosis and management, it underscores challenges in achieving equitable access to care across different regions.
Key Findings from England
Using data from the English Prescribing Dataset (April 2019–March 2024), researchers found that ADHD prescriptions rose sharply during and after the pandemic. Key insights include:
- Prescription rates grew from 25 items per 1,000 people in 2019–20 to 41.55 items per 1,000 people in 2023–24, marking an 18% annual rise.
- Methylphenidate remains the most commonly prescribed drug, but prescriptions for lisdexamfetamine saw the fastest growth, increasing by 55% annually.
- Prescription rates vary across England’s regions, with London experiencing the highest annual increase (28%) and the Northeast and Yorkshire reporting the lowest (13%).
At a more localized level, discrepancies are even more apparent. For instance, the NHS Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board (ICB) reported a staggering 51.5% rise in prescriptions, while NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB saw a modest increase of just over 4.5%.
Socioeconomic Factors at Play
The study identifies significant links between socioeconomic factors—such as deprivation, ethnicity, and inequality—and ADHD prescriptions. This suggests that broader societal dynamics shape access to care. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have also likely played a role in raising ADHD awareness, prompting more individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment. However, researchers caution against misinformation spreading through these channels, advocating for effective methods of content moderation.
A Global Call to Action
The researchers emphasize the need for tailored healthcare policies to address disparities in ADHD care worldwide. “The significant rise in ADHD prescriptions across England highlights the urgent need for policies that address both regional and socioeconomic disparities,” they write. By identifying barriers to care and their root causes, targeted strategies can ensure more equitable access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment globally.
As the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to reshape healthcare practices, determining whether these prescription trends are temporary or part of a longer-term shift remains a critical question for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers alike.