Increase in the Use of ADHD Medication in Adults in New Zealand
It is crucial to increase awareness and understanding of adult ADHD to ensure individuals receive the necessary support and treatment.
An increase in diagnoses of ADHD in adults in New Zealand between 2006-2022 has been reported through a survey of pharmacists dispensing treatment. Experts attribute this trend to a growing awareness of the disease and its symptoms.
An estimated 2.58 percent of the adult population, approximately 167,000 individuals, are affected, with only 0.6 percent receiving medication.
A study conducted by researchers from the University of Otago, published in the New Zealand Medical Journal, analyzed prescriptions for 70,000 people using dispensing data and found a ten-fold increase in dispensing rates for key ADHD treatment drugs like methylphenidate and atomoxetine.
University of Otago researchers Ben Beaglehole, Stephen Jarman, and Chris Frampton reported a significant rise in adult prescriptions, as well as a threefold increase in children diagnoses from 566 per 100,000 in 2006 to 1,722 per 100,000 in 2022.
This accounts for 1.72 percent of all children, but it is estimated that up to 5 percent may be affected. The data includes treatment for persistent childhood ADHD and new diagnoses in adulthood, revealing that more men are receiving treatment than women.
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Barriers to Diagnosis, Treatment
Currently, in New Zealand, treatment is by drugs controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Only specialists, such as paediatricians and psychiatrists, can prescribe medication, which must be updated every two years, leading many diagnoses to fall outside the scope of general practitioners.
“Obtaining a thorough assessment for ADHD is a lengthy and often expensive process, with many individuals seeking private healthcare for a diagnosis,” Mr. Sutherland stated.
“There are numerous instances of individuals being denied access to ADHD services in the public mental health system due to a reduced workforce concentrating solely on urgent cases.”
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can disrupt daily functioning and development.
It is widely considered to be underdiagnosed globally, and the increase in adult diagnoses reflects a growing awareness of the condition and its impact on daily life.
Enhanced awareness and understanding of adult ADHD play a crucial role in ensuring individuals receive the appropriate support and treatment.
- Difficulty focusing on tasks, conversations, and instructions
- Forgetfulness in daily activities
- Easily distracted by irrelevant thoughts or stimuli
- Difficulty organizing tasks and completing work on time
Hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms include:
- Restlessness, fidgeting, or difficulty sitting still
- Impulsive behaviors like speaking out of turn or interrupting others
- Difficulty waiting or taking turns
ADHD is typically diagnosed in childhood but can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Its exact cause is unknown but is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.
