ADHD Carries Excess Mortality; Medication Link Rests on Three Studies

This meta-analysis quantifies all-cause and cause-specific mortality in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and gives pharmacists a pooled, though confounding-prone, estimate of the association between ADHD pharmacotherapy and lower mortality.

📅 Journal publication: Oct 1, 2026 · Last updated: Oct 24, 2026

attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorderADHDstimulantsmethylphenidatemortalitysuicidemeta-analysispsychopharmacologyobservational studiesinjury Psychiatry / Psychopharmacology

Background Information

ADHD medications may lower mortality risk, study finds.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is linked to increased mortality, and understanding these risks is crucial for informing clinical and public health strategies. ADHD increased all-cause mortality risk (HR, 1.71) but ADHD medication was linked to reduced mortality risk (HR, 0.75). Highlights the potential benefit of ADHD medication in reducing mortality risk, but heterogeneity in study methods calls for caution. ADHD medications may reduce mortality risk, emphasizing their role in treatment plans.

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Authors: Corrigan L, Heywood L, Stewart GR, O'Nions E, Shelford H, Stott J, John A

Citation: Corrigan L, Heywood L, Stewart GR, et al. Mortality Among People With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA network open. 2026;9(10):e2639448. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.39448

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI · Free Full Text (PMC)

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Executive Summary

Study Design

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