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Stimulant Prescription Cautions: Addressing Misuse, Diversion and Malingering

  • Attention-Deficit Disorder (R Bussing, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

As prescriptions for stimulant medication to treat ADHD have increased, so have concerns about the nonmedical use and diversion of stimulant medication, especially among college students. There is also growing concern about young adults feigning ADHD in order to receive a prescription for stimulant medication. This paper summarizes recent research on the nonmedical use and diversion of stimulant medication with a focus on the prevalence of these behaviors, motivations for nonmedical use, factors associated with nonmedical use, and the consequences of such use. Research on the medical misuse of prescribed medication and malingering to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is also discussed.

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Conflict of Interest

David L. Rabiner has served as a consultant to C8 Sciences and Health and Wellness Partners (on behalf of Shire Pharmaceuticals). He also has received stock from C8 Sciences.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology & Neuroscience and the Center for Child and Family Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA

    David L. Rabiner

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  1. David L. Rabiner
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Correspondence to David L. Rabiner.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Attention-Deficit Disorder

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Rabiner, D.L. Stimulant Prescription Cautions: Addressing Misuse, Diversion and Malingering. Curr Psychiatry Rep 15, 375 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-013-0375-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-013-0375-2

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