PhD Scientific Days 2025

Poster Session II. - L: Mental Health Sciences

Characterizing Substance Use Behaviors Among Individuals with an ADHD Diagnosis: Insights from a Clinical Study

Name of the presenter

Karsai Czuczumanoff Bernadett

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University

Authors

Dr. Karsai Czuczumanoff Bernadett¹, Dr. Szily Erika¹, Dr. Csukly Gábor¹, Dr. Réthelyi János¹, Dr. Pulay Attila József¹, Dr. Balogh Lívia¹, Dr. Lékó András¹, Dr. Vályi-Nagy István², Dr. Olasz Anna²

1: Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University
2: Nyírő Gyula National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictions

Text of the abstract

Introduction: Among psychiatric disorders, individuals diagnosed with ADHD exhibit one of the highest rates of comorbid substance use disorders (10–30%). ADHD is associated with a threefold increase in the risk of substance use disorders. Similarly, the prevalence of ADHD among substance users (21%) is significantly higher than in the general population (7%). This comorbid population is of particular interest due to their markedly worse outcomes in terms of mortality, suicide risk, functioning, and prognosis compared to non-substance-using individuals with ADHD. They also tend to initiate substance use at an earlier age and have a lower likelihood of achieving remission.

Objectives: The present study aims to (1) explore the substance use patterns of individuals diagnosed with ADHD and (2) identify specific risk factors that may predispose these individuals to substance use and the development of problematic use.

Hypotheses: It is hypothesized that male gender, a family history of substance use disorder among first-degree relatives, comorbid borderline personality disorder, and elevated impulsivity increase the risk of substance use disorder in individuals with ADHD. Additionally, we propose that certain risk factors may not influence the likelihood of initial use but may play a role in the progression from recreational to problematic use.

Methods: A total of 190 adults diagnosed with ADHD will be recruited from the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Semmelweis University and the Nyírő Gyula National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictions. Participants will be categorized into three groups based on substance use: (1) non-users, (2) occasional (recreational) users, and (3) problematic users. Exclusion criteria include: a major mood or psychotic episode within the past year, alcohol and/or benzodiazepine use disorder, and organic CNS disorders. Instruments include a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, and the UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale. Occasional and problematic users will additionally complete the Drug Use Disorders Identification Test–Extended, Maudsley Addiction Profile , the Addiction Severity Index, and computerized neuropsychological assessments.

To date, 60 participants have been enrolled, and their data are currently being processed.