Medical Treatment of Children and Youths with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Norwegian Prescription Registry Based Study

Jan Norum,Frank Ivar Nohr,Arpad Totth,Aina Iren Olsen,Anca Heyd

doi:10.5539/gjhs.v6n4p155

Abstract

Objectives:Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurological condition with a profound effect on quality of life. Prescription databases may document pattern of use. In this study we aimed to explore the use in Norway employing such a database.Methods:All prescriptions on drugs for the treatment of ADHD between 2004 and 2011, as registered in the Norwegian Prescription Database (NPD) were analyzed. The following drugs were included: Amphetamine, dexamphetamine, methylphenidate and atomoxetine. In-hospital drug administration was excluded. Numbers of users per 1,000 inhabitants were calculated according to gender, age and residence. A sub-analysis compared users born in January-June with those born in July-December. Drug costs were calculated and converted into Euros (€ 1 = N.kr 7.4540).Results:Drugs for the treatment of ADHD was significantly more often prescribed in northern Norway than in any other Norwegian health region (P < 0.001). Within the northern region, Nordland County was the “culprit” (P < 0.02). Compared to Norwegian figures, significantly more females (aged 10-19 years) were treated in northern Norway [male/female ratios 3:1 and 2.2:1 (P < 0.01)] and especially in Nordland County (ratio 2.1:1). The subanalysis did not indicate a northern overtreatment of those being a younger group in their grade. The annual drug cost per user in Norway was € 919.Conclusions:The prescription rate was significantly higher in northern Norway and Nordland County was the culprit. A prescription database may be a tool for monitoring the national use of these drugs.

Highlights

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neuropsychiatric condition characterized by core symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (Harpin, 2005)
Drugs for the treatment of ADHD was significantly more often prescribed in northern Norway than in any other Norwegian health region (P < 0.001)
The prescription rate was significantly higher in northern Norway and Nordland County was the culprit

Summary

Introduction

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neuropsychiatric condition characterized by core symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (Harpin, 2005). It is potentially a lifelong condition with a profound effect on quality of life (Shaw et al, 2012; National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence, 2009; American Academy of Pediatrics, 2000; Coghill et al, 2009; Ebert et al, 2003; Pliszka, 2007). Among school aged children figures have been reported between 3-5% (Biederman et al, 2004). The disorder is the second most frequent long-term diagnosis made in children, narrowly trailing asthma (Schwartz, 2013)

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