A recent study published in the British Medical Journal has found that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication is associated with significantly lower risks of suicidal behaviours, substance misuse, transport accidents, and criminality. The research, which analyzed data from nearly 150,000 people in Sweden, suggests that ADHD medications may have benefits beyond just alleviating core symptoms.
The study, led by Prof Samuele Cortese, found that individuals who took ADHD medication had a reduced risk of first occurrence of suicidal behaviour, substance misuse, transport accidents, and criminality. The results show a 17% reduction for suicidal behaviour, 15% for substance misuse, 12% for transport accidents, and 13% for criminality.
ADHD is often associated with higher rates of mental health problems, including suicide, substance misuse, and accidental injuries. Individuals with ADHD are also overrepresented in the criminal justice system. While medication has been shown to alleviate hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, there was limited evidence on whether these improvements translate into benefits in everyday life.
The study’s findings add to the growing body of evidence supporting the value of ADHD treatment. With the number of prescriptions for ADHD medication rising by 18% year-on-year since the pandemic, this research is timely and important. The largest and most rigorous study of its kind, it used Swedish national registers to examine the effects of ADHD drug treatment in individuals aged six to 64 years with a new diagnosis of ADHD.
The researchers used a technique called target trial emulation to analyze the data, which aims to apply clinical trial design principles to existing medical records. While the study is not bias-proof due to the lack of randomization data, it provides strong evidence for the benefits of ADHD medication beyond just alleviating core symptoms.
Experts agree that the findings should inform the debate on the effects and safety of ADHD medications. Prof Cortese stated that clinicians should focus on discussing potential risks and benefits with families, highlighting the importance of treatment in reducing risk. The study’s results also suggest that medication can have positive impacts on life beyond just alleviating core symptoms.
Overall, this study provides strong evidence for the value of ADHD treatment and highlights the potential benefits of medication in reducing risks associated with the condition.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/aug/13/adhd-medication-linked-to-lower-risk-of-suicidal-behaviours-study-suggests