Study Finds Telehealth Prescriptions for ADHD Do Not Increase Risk of Substance Use Disorders

Recent research conducted by Mass General Brigham provides reassurance about the safety of prescribing ADHD medications via telehealth. The study, the first of its kind, compared the rates of substance use disorder among patients with ADHD who received stimulant medications through in-person visits versus virtual appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings showed that overall, telehealth prescribing was not associated with an increased risk of developing substance use disorders.

The investigation analyzed electronic health records of 7,944 patients between March 2020 and August 2023, a period marked by a significant shift to online healthcare services. It was observed that 91% of these patients had at least one in-person consultation around the time they received a stimulant prescription, while 9% relied solely on telehealth.

Importantly, the study revealed that patients who initially received stimulant prescriptions via telehealth did not exhibit a higher overall risk of substance use disorder compared to those who started with in-person visits, after accounting for variables like age and income. However, more nuanced findings indicated that patients aged 26 and older who received their first stimulant prescription through telehealth might have an elevated risk of developing stimulant use disorder, which involves drugs such as prescription stimulants, cocaine, or methamphetamine.

The researchers emphasized caution, noting that only 19 participants developed stimulant use disorder, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. This small number suggests the possibility that these findings could be coincidental or reflect a higher inherent risk among patients opting for telehealth.

Lead author Dr. Vinod Rao explained that the majority of data supports the safety of telehealth for ADHD medication management. Co-author Dr. Timothy Wilens highlighted that this study reinforces the viability of telehealth-based stimulant therapy, helping make treatment more accessible without increasing adverse risks.

Overall, the study advocates for continued use of telehealth in managing ADHD with stimulants, provided there is comprehensive diagnosis and regular follow-up. These findings contribute valuable insight into safe prescribing practices in the evolving landscape of digital healthcare.

Source: MedicalXpress