Half of children with ADHD adhere to prescribed medication
This meta-analysis quantifies pediatric ADHD medication adherence and identifies five modifiable factors, giving pharmacists concrete targets for counseling and dose-regimen selection.
Adherence to ADHD medication is only 43.6% in youth.
Understanding factors that influence medication adherence in children with ADHD can enhance treatment effectiveness and avoid adverse outcomes. The pooled medication adherence rate was 43.6%, and factors such as parental agreement and medication education significantly improved adherence. The study highlights modifiable factors that can boost adherence, though high study heterogeneity suggests variability in results. Targeting modifiable factors like parental education may improve ADHD medication adherence.
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Authors:Liu J, Kang B, Deng W, Hao Z, Yang C, Zhang L
Citation:Liu J, Kang B, Deng W, et al. Medication adherence and influencing factors in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in pharmacology. 2026;17:1819206. doi:10.3389/fphar.2026.1819206
Subscribers receive access to a complete clinical analysis, available online and as a downloadable PDF.
Executive Summary
Study Design
Patient Population
Primary Outcomes
Secondary Outcomes & Safety Profile
Pharmacist Implications
Clinical Pearls
Limitations
Controversies & Evidence Gaps
Cost & Logistics
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