<![CDATA[Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that may persist into adulthood and affect academic, social, and occupational functioning. In adult patients, ADHD is frequently associated with an increased risk of Substance Use Disorder (SUD), raising concerns regarding the potential for misuse and dependence related to stimulant medications used in ADHD therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy for adult ADHD and to review the risk of stimulant misuse and dependence based on current scientific evidence. The method employed in this study was a literature review using data obtained from national and international journals indexed in Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar published between 2017 and 2026. The findings indicated that stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamine, were effective in reducing the core symptoms of ADHD by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the central nervous system. Most studies reported that the use of stimulant medications at therapeutic doses and under medical supervision was not significantly associated with an increased risk of substance misuse or dependence. The risk of misuse was more commonly observed in cases involving non-medical use and inadequate clinical monitoring. In addition to pharmacological therapy, non-pharmacological approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) also contributed to improving treatment outcomes and patients’ quality of life. Therefore, the use of stimulant medications in adult ADHD patients may be considered relatively safe and effective when administered rationally, individually, and under appropriate medical supervision.]]>
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