Adult ADHD Stimulant Prescriptions More Than Double in Canada Following Start of COVID-19 Pandemic

Adult ADHD stimulant prescriptions have more than doubled since 2020, with young women and virtual care driving the record-breaking trend in Canada.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 9, 2026, 6:10 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Canadian Medical Association Journal

Source received: Canadian Medical Association Journal - Adult ADHD medication trends. Ready to edit.

1. HEADLINE

Adult ADHD Stimulant Prescriptions More Than Double in Canada Following Start of COVID-19 Pandemic

2. SUMMARY

New research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reveals a dramatic surge in stimulant prescriptions among adults, with rates accelerating rapidly since 2020. The study identifies young adults, particularly women, as the primary demographic driving this growth, alongside a shift from psychiatric specialists to primary care and nurse practitioners. While improved awareness of adult ADHD is a factor, experts express concern over the role of virtual health assessments and social media in potentially fueling misdiagnosis.

3. CONTENT