The Benefits and Risks of ADHD Medication: Evidence from Real-World Practice

April 13, 2026

Brian D'Onofrio, Ph.D., Sharon Stephens Brehm Endowed Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with significant impairment across the lifespan. ADHD treatment guidelines recommend pharmacotherapy based largely on highly controlled randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Yet, there are serious limitations of the existing RCTs that hinder the potential to apply an evidence-based approach to ADHD treatment. To help address these limitations and inform clinical care, this presentation will review evidence from large-scale observational studies leveraging national datasets and advanced epidemiologic designs.

Last Updated: 4/23/2026 9:47:40 AM

Go to the news and video index