Abstract
ObjectiveThe use of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication is increasing worldwide, but its status in China is unknown. This research aimed to assess the trends of ADHD medication use in young Chinese patients between 2010 and 2019.MethodsDispensing data related to ADHD medication use were extracted from the Hospital Prescription Analysis Cooperative Project of China. The trends in the yearly prescription number of ADHD drugs and corresponding cost were analyzed. We further stratified the data by age, sex, and specific drug.ResultsFrom 2010 to 2019, sampled prescriptions for ADHD medication increased from 902 to 4531, and the total expenditure increased rapidly from 276,580 to 2,412,308 Chinese Yuan. Prescriptions for males were almost fourfold more than that for females. Patients aged 6–11 years had the highest number of prescriptions for ADHD medication each year, accounting for more than 50% of the total number of prescriptions. The percentage of methylphenidate prescriptions decreased from 91.9% in 2010 to 76.9% in 2019, and the corresponding cost declined from 77.3% to 66.8%. In contrast, atomoxetine prescriptions increased progressively and accounted for about 24.5% of the total prescriptions at the end of the study.ConclusionsThe use of ADHD drugs and the corresponding cost increased rapidly in China, and methylphenidate was the most frequently prescribed medicine. The increase in ADHD prescriptions requires attention to ensure that it reflects appropriate use, especially in patients aged 6–11 years.
Highlights
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders in childhood and adolescence [1]
The currently available ADHD drugs in China are methylphenidate (N06BA04) and atomoxetine (N06BA09); this study only focuses on these two drugs
The percentage of prescriptions containing methylphenidate decreased from 91.9% in 2010 to 76.9% in 2019 (P = 0.013), and the corresponding cost declined from 77.3% to 66.8% (P = 0.005)
Summary
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders in childhood and adolescence [1]. It is a group of syndromes characterized by persistent symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which are not commensurate with the individual’s level of development [2]. Many symptoms persist into adulthood, negatively affecting patients, their families, and society. It is more prevalent in males than in females, in school-age. ADHD Drug Use in China children [3]. This study was conducted to evaluate the prescribing status and trends of ADHD drugs in China for a decade
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
