Assessment of Clinicians’ Knowledge and Screening Practices of Stimulant Misuse in Adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Philadelphia

Stimulants are the first line pharmacotherapy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The number of prescription for stimulants dispensed by retail pharmacies has increased from 4 million in 1991 to 45 million in 2010 (1). Adolescents have a lifetime prevalence of nonmedical use of stimulants of 9.1% (2). Given the increased number and availability of stimulant pills and the potential for misuse and diversion, it is important for prescribers to carefully assess stimulant misuse in adolescents with ADHD. One study of physician’s perceptions about stimulant misuse noted that many physicians were unaware of these issues (3). The aims of this survey were to assess pediatric psychiatry and pediatric primary care clinicians' knowledge of and screening practices for stimulant misuse in adolescents with ADHD. We also assessed interest in a possible screening aid such as a best practice alert in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR).