The Association of Oral Stimulant Medication Adherence With Work Productivity Among Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect work productivity. This survey examined relationships between oral stimulant medication adherence, work productivity and related indirect costs, and ADHD symptom level among US adults diagnosed with ADHD. Adults (aged ≥18 years) self-reporting a healthcare provider–confirmed ADHD diagnosis and currently taking oral stimulants for ≥3 months were surveyed on medication adherence (Medication Adherence Reasons Scale [MAR-Scale]), work productivity and activity impairment (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment–General Health questionnaire), and ADHD symptom level (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale version 1.1 [ASRS-v1.1] Symptom Checklist). Respondents were dichotomized on medication adherence using MAR-Scale total scores (low/medium adherence [LMA], score ≥1; high adherence [HA], score = 0). Data are reported as mean ± standard deviation, with between-group differences examined using 2-sided t-tests (statistical significance, P < 0.05). A total of 602 respondents (LMA, n=395; HA, n=207) participated. In the LMA group, the most frequently reported reason for nonadherence was forgetfulness (68.1%). The LMA vs HA group reported significantly greater absenteeism (10.62%±21.64% vs 4.55%±13.19%), presenteeism (38.63%±28.57% vs 29.66%±27.61%), overall work productivity loss (43.35%±30.83% vs 32.05%±29.18%), and activity impairment (47.29%±31.38% vs 40.77%±31.12%); all, P < 0.05. Indirect costs (absenteeism-related: $3669.33±$10,491.35 vs $1359.42±$4068.61; total $15,401.40±$16,304.66 vs $10,790.17±$11,919.97; both P < 0.05) were significantly greater for LMA vs HA group. Additionally, ASRS-v1.1 Symptom Checklist scores were significantly greater in the LMA vs HA group (10.64±4.79 vs 8.55±5.04; P < 0.05). In conclusion, among adults with a self-reported ADHD diagnosis taking oral stimulants, lower medication adherence was associated with significantly greater work productivity loss, activity impairment, and indirect costs.

This poster was presented at the 32nd annual Psych Congress, held Oct. 3-6, 2019, in San Diego, California.