ADHD in alcoholism: A real problem?

Abstract

Introduction

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a risk factor for drug. Prevalence rates between 15 and 30% had been previously found in this population.

Objective

To identify the real the prevalence of ADHD in alcoholics and to find/test/ evaluate? a new type of screening (ASRS) for the initial diagnosis of ADHD in alcoholics.

Method

312 patients from an outpatient clinic for alcoholism were recruited during 1 year. All patients completed the ASRS: Adult Self-Report Scale. DSM IV criteria were used for other psychiatric diagnoses.

Results

1. • 312 patients (66.3% (207) men) filled out the ASRS of which 13.5% (42) were positive.

2. • Alcohol consumption: 69% for more than 1 month, 17% less than a month and 14% with active consumption.

3. • 27.6% (86) had another psychiatric diagnosis from which 69% were ASRS positive. ASRS positive patients present a major risk of having another mental disorder. OR = 8.3 (4,1 - 17,1, c2 = 0,77, p = 0,001).

4. • Other drugs: 70.5% consume other drugs. 76% of them are ASRS positive. 27.6% consumed illegal substances, 47.6% of them being ASRS positive (c2 = 9.77, p = 0,002). ASRS positive patient have more average substance abuse (including tobacco): 1.02 DT: 0.87 versus 0.72, 7 DT: 0.04 (z -2.21, p.027).

Conclusions

1. • ASRS detected 13.5% of ADHD diagnosis in alcoholics.

2. • Patients with positive screening present more substance abuse and more risk of psychiatric comorbidity.