Worried about Long-Term Effects of ADHD Meds?

By Jeff Copper, MBA, PCC, PCAC, CPCC, ACG – August 12, 2017

ADHD MedsAre you worried about the long-term effects of taking ADHD stimulant medications? You should be. You should also be worried about the long-term effects of NOT taking ADHD meds. All too often, I find people demonize medications prematurely or don’t put them in context. Mind you, I’m not pro medication, but I am anti suffering, especially in the face of ignorance.

The decision to take meds is one of quality of life. Like with any drug, there are side effects and consequences of taking ADHD meds, and ADHD stimulants have both side effects and consequences.

What most of us don’t realize is that, if you have ADHD, there are side effects and long-term consequences of NOT taking medications. Research is clear. Academic performance, employability, and earnings are higher for those taking ADHD meds. Low self-confidence and self-esteem are side effects.

Speeding tickets, traffic accidents, and disabilities are higher for those with ADHD who are not taking meds. Divorce rates are higher, as well as failed businesses, and those with ADHD are more prone to substance abuse than the general population. Some research suggests ADHD medications may lower the susceptibility if started at an early age and continued.

Likewise, there are significant side effects and long-term consequences of radiation treatment that I endured in my battle with cancer. While they are significant, the consequences of not enduring the treatment would have been much worse.

The decision to take medications is as individual as the person and should be a personal decision. As they say, ignorance is more expensive than knowledge. Do your research before making your decision. One resource is the National Resource Centers, but their website is a bit overwhelming for a dyslexic like me… https://www2.ed.gov. Or you can call CHADD, 301-306-7070, and talk to the librarian. I’ve found they are very helpful. It is a free service. Use it.

Be concerned about the consequences of ADHD meds, but be balanced. You might find the long-term consequences of NOT taking the meds to be worse than taking them.

5 thoughts on “Worried about Long-Term Effects of ADHD Meds?

  1. Hey Jeff. I do have question on when medication effects begins to wear off after 6-8 hours. Have there been studies on people with ADHD who experience good effects of medication but when “rebounding”(as Dr Parker calls it) happens seems to create worries, anxieties, restlessness etc making them feel uncomfortable during that time? any good resources, topics or info in managing that?

    1. I have not heard of any studies but I have worked with many who have a noticeable “rebound.” My job isn’t to tell them what to do but rather ask if they have discussed it with their mental health provider. As I reflect, I can’t remember when a scenario like this has happened where the individual and mental health professional didn’t resolve it outside of me. I think the key is to understand that getting meds right, and sometimes in combination, is a bit tricky. Often I suggest that my clients journal their experience a few times a day and share it with the physician. Remember… they are data driven; if they see the patterns in the journal, they typically respond. Hope that helps.

  2. Jeff, I was interested by this line – “The decision to take meds is one of quality of life or the extension of life.”

    Is there evidence that taking ADHD meds will shorten your life? If so, by how much on average?

    1. Studies show stimulants to be an effective intervention for ADHD and thus improve the quality of life. I’m not aware of any impact on the duration of life. Wish I did.

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