Stimulant medications: a trade-off? The lived experience of adolescents with ADHD.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to gain information and insight about prescription stimulant medication use among children and adolescents with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) across developmental stages. DESIGN AND METHODS: Investigators conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 15 college students with ADHD. Follow-up interviews confirmed and validated information obtained during initial interviews. RESULTS: Qualitative data analysis resulted in three global categories related to the use of prescription stimulant medication from childhood to late adolescence: (a) the early years, (b) "the trade-off," and (c) stimulant medications in college. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Increased education about prescription stimulant medications and closer management is needed to reduce side effects and minimize the risks of misuse.