A new study confirmed what we've already thought--that for children with ADHD taking stimulant medication DECREASES their chance of having a problem with drugs and alcohol, compared to children with ADHD who are not medicated. You can read more here. Exactly how stimulant medications guard against substance abuse is not entirely clear. It is possible that children who are untreated for their ADHD are self-medicating with drugs and alcohol. It is also possible that by decreasing the core symptoms of ADHD, including impulsivity, children are more successful, have better self-esteem and make better decisions.
