What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to evaluate the efficacy of combined pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy in treating ADHD and substance use disorder (SUD).

June 29, 2026Open Access

Treat comorbid attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and substance use disorder with both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy for best results

KCKimberley ChenSpringer Nature (New Zealand)CKConnie KangSpringer Nature (New Zealand)

Key Points

The research aims to evaluate the efficacy of combined pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy in treating ADHD and substance use disorder (SUD).
Assessment of treatment outcomes for ADHD-SUD comorbidity using pharmacotherapy and integrated psychotherapy.
Utilization of psychostimulants as the primary pharmacotherapy without worsening SUD symptoms.
Implementation of cognitive behavioural therapy addressing coping skills and harm reduction.
Improved treatment retention and success when combining pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy.
Psychostimulants do not exacerbate SUD symptoms, promoting safer management.
Cognitive behavioural therapy effectively teaches harm reduction strategies and coping mechanisms.

Abstract

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) co-occurring with substance use disorder (SUD) is highly prevalent and is associated with poor prognosis and negative treatment outcomes. Comprehensive management of ADHD-SUD comorbidity involves pharmacotherapy integrated with psychotherapy to enhance treatment retention and success. Psychostimulants are the mainstay of ADHD pharmacotherapy and do not exacerbate SUD symptoms; however, psychostimulants are associated with an inherent risk of misuse, abuse and diversion. Cognitive behavioural therapy is a first-line behavioural intervention that teaches patients harm reduction and coping skills while addressing affective and environmental risks for substance use.

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