There is a high rate of “addiction” when stimulants are used to treat ADHD (ADD

There is a high rate of “addiction” when stimulants are used to treat ADHD (ADD). We do not yet understand why “addicting” drugs produce a low rate of dependence when used therapeutically. Studies have found that few children (accurately diagnosed) with attention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder (ADHD, ADD) become dependent upon stimulants such as Ritalin, dextroamphetamine, Adderall, etc.). In fact, if such children are not treated, they tend to self-medicate with worse drugs (cocaine, alcohol) later in life.