ADHD prescriptions rising for women over 35 years old

Prescriptions for ADHD medications are rising, especially among women over 35. A recent study highlights that these women are the least likely to misuse stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. In 2022, 1.7 million women aged 35 to 64 were prescribed ADHD drugs, compared to 1.2 million in 2019. This increase follows a general rise in ADHD prescriptions since the pandemic and the popularity of telehealth services. Researchers analyzed data from over 83,000 adults aged 18 to 64. They found that misuse of these medications was significantly lower among middle-aged women compared to men. Only 13.7% of women misused their prescriptions, while 22.0% of men did. Misuse was also lower in older women compared to younger ones. There are three main types of stimulants for ADHD: amphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate. About 25% of people with ADHD prescriptions reported misusing them, with around 9% facing addiction issues. Those on amphetamines were more prone to misuse than those on methylphenidate. The sharp rise in prescriptions for women has researchers puzzled. Some believe it may be linked to women feeling more empowered to discuss their struggles. Many girls with ADHD may go undiagnosed because their symptoms are less noticeable than those of boys. Experts suggest untreated ADHD can lead to feelings of failure and depression. Women may find that life becomes more challenging, especially after having children. Managing family responsibilities can make ADHD symptoms more severe. Hormones may also play a role, with many women being diagnosed during menopause. Low estrogen levels can affect focus and make daily life harder. Some women seek evaluations when they feel they can no longer cope with their symptoms.