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ADHD and Addiction

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is often treated with stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate. However, this treatment remains controversial, as some studies have suggested that sensitization to these drugs of abuse predispose towards adult drug addiction. A new study, using juvenile rats, now shows that chronic treatment with methylphenidate during adolescence actually reduces drug-seeking behavior during adulthood.

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Figure 1: Model of methylphenidate actions.

Renee Lucas

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Robbins, T. ADHD and Addiction. Nat Med 8, 24–25 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1038/nm0102-24

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