2709 – Impact of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder “ADHD” across lifespan on substance use disorders “SUD”

Abstract

Introduction Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects not only children but persists for up to 4.4% in the general population. Comorbidity is common among adults with ADHD, including substance abuse. Objectives Assessment of impact of both childhood and adult ADHD on SUD. Aim The aim of this study was to estimate prevalence rate of past history of childhood ADHD and current adult ADHD among substance use inpatients and to compare between the two groups regarding onset and severity of substance use disorder. Methods This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in addiction treatment center at El Maamoura psychiatric hospital. One hundred and two adult males were assessed using Arabic version of Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) for retrospective assessment of symptoms of childhood ADHD. Arabic version of Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) Symptom Checklist was used to screen for adult ADHD. DSM IV TR criteria were used for final diagnosis. Results Sixty Four patients of the total studied sample had past history of childhood ADHD. Of which, only 36 patients fulfilled the DSM - IV TR criteria for adult ADHD. Presence of adult ADHD was associated with an earlier mean age of onset of SUD (13.22 vs. 14.86 years), larger number of hospital admissions, (4.21 vs. 6.83 times) and a shorter mean period of abstinence (124.53 vs. 271.50 days). Conclusions In comparison to childhood ADHD, presence of adult ADHD was associated with a more complicated course of substance use disorders and poorer outcome.