Concurrent use of stimulants and second-generation antipsychotics among children with ADHD enrolled in Medicaid.

Objective: This study examined the prevalence of and factors associated with concurrent use of long-acting stimulants (LAS) and second-generation antipsychotic agents among children and adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methods: The study involved retrospective longitudinal analysis of 2003-2007 Medicaid data from four states for children and adolescents between the ages of six and 17 years who were diagnosed as having ADHD and initiated LAS treatment. Concurrent use of LAS and second-generation antipsychotic medications was defined as simultaneous receipt of both medications for at least 14 days. On the basis of the conceptual framework of the Andersen behavioral model, multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to examine predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with concurrent use.

Results: Among the 61,793 children who initiated LAS treatment for ADHD, 11,866 (19.2%) received LAS and second-generation antipsychotics concurrently for at least 14 days. Overall, the average length of concurrent use was 130±98 days. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that concurrent use was higher among boys, blacks, and foster care children compared with their respective counterparts. Comorbid psychiatric conditions, including disorders that are not approved indications for second-generation antipsychotic use, were associated with concurrent use of LAS and second-generation antipsychotics.

Conclusions: Almost one in five children and adolescents who initiated LAS also received second-generation antipsychotics concurrently for at least 14 days. Approved and nonapproved indications of second-generation antipsychotics influenced concurrent use in pediatric ADHD.