ADHD Drug Prescribing Trend Is Increasing Among Children and Adolescents in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of ADHD medication prescribing of school-aged children in Hong Kong (HK) from 2001 to 2013 and to compare with other countries.

Method: Using the Hong Kong Hospital Authority Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System, we investigated the epidemiology and prevalence of ADHD medication prescribing.

Results: The prevalence of children on ADHD medication increased 14 times throughout the study period-0.072% in 2001 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.068%, 0.077%]) to 1.027% (95% CI = [1.008%, 1.047%]) in 2013. Prevalence in females increased at a faster rate than in males. The prescribing trend in kindergarten children (3- to 5-year-old) was relatively steady from 2001 to 2008-0.025% (95% CI = [0.019%, 0.033%]) in 2001-until a marked increase from 2009 to 2013-0.121% (95% CI = [0.105%, 0.139%]) in 2013.

Conclusion: The prevalence of ADHD medication prescribing in Hong Kong is increasing but remains lower than most Western countries. However, the prevalence of ADHD medication prescribing for kindergarten children should be monitored to ensure appropriate use.

Keywords: ADHD; atomoxetine; children; methylphenidate; prevalence.