Early ADHD treatment may reduce nicotine use among youths

Study details: This longitudinal cohort study followed 13,572 U.S. youths aged 12 to 17 years over a 9-year period using data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. The study aimed to evaluate the association between ADHD diagnosis, symptom severity, pharmacotherapy, and the onset of e-cigarette and tobacco use.

Results: Youth with ≥3 ADHD symptoms had significantly higher adjusted odds of initiating e-cigarette use, cigarette smoking, other tobacco use, and dual use (1.60, 1.52, 1.61, and 1.72, respectively) compared with those with asymptomatic ADHD or population controls. The association was consistent regardless of pharmacotherapy status.

Clinical impact: Early diagnosis and management of ADHD may reduce the risk of subsequent nicotine and tobacco use among adolescents. Consider comprehensive ADHD treatment plans that address both behavioral and pharmacological aspects to mitigate these risks.

Source:

McCabe SE, et al. (2025, February 3). JAMA Netw Open. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms and Later E-Cigarette and Tobacco Use in US Youths. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39932711/