ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions have surged around the world - but there's concern from experts that we might be overdoing it.

In New Zealand, prescriptions for the relevant medication have increased tenfold since 2006 and Pharmac has reported a 140 percent rise in demand for these medications.

General Practice NZ chair Dr Bryan Betty says it's a complex diagnosis - and there are several conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms.

"ADHD is very complex, there's a list of diagnostic criteria. It's really really important that assessments give a proper diagnosis, because the treatment can be life-changing - and it's really important to understand that. However, it can mimic a whole lot of other things."

LISTEN ABOVE

ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions have surged around the world - but there's concern from experts that we might be overdoing it.
In New Zealand, prescriptions for the relevant medication have increased tenfold since 2006 and Pharmac has reported a 140 percent rise in demand for these medications.
General Practice NZ chair Dr Bryan Betty says it's a complex diagnosis - and there are several conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms.
"ADHD is very complex, there's a list of diagnostic criteria. It's really really important that assessments give a proper diagnosis, because the treatment can be life-changing - and it's really important to understand that. However, it can mimic a whole lot of other things."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Dr Bryan Betty: General Practice NZ chair addresses concerns that ADHD may be overdiagnosed

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/84556d23-3b5e-4237-aefb-b22e00703d62/transcript

Advertisement