Associations Between ADHD and Psychoactive Substance Use Disorders

Abstract

This article investigates the relationship between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and psychoactive substance use disorders (PSUD) in siblings of ADHD and normal‐control probands and addresses issues of psychiatric comorbidity and gender. Using DSM‐III‐R structured diagnostic interviews and blind raters, the authors conducted a 4‐year follow‐up of siblings. ADHD and male gender predicted higher rates and an earlier onset of PSUD after adjusting for high‐risk status, other psychiatric disorders, and age. Risk was particularly high if the siblings had ADHD plus conduct disorder. This study's findings confirms the authors' prior report highlighting the importance of drug and alcohol prevention and cessation programs aimed at ADHD youth and their siblings, particularly those with comorbid conduct disorder.