Number of people getting free or subsidised ADHD medication more than doubles in five years

Drugs used to treat the disorder include methylphenidate, which is better known by the brand names Ritalin, Concerta and Delmosart, as well as two other stimulants: dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine. File picture

The number of people receiving medication for ADHD under free or subsidised drug schemes has surged by 150% since the beginning of the covid pandemic, costing more than €30m in the past five years.

A total of 25,715 patients were prescribed medication for the neurodevelopmental disorder on the medical card or other public health schemes last year, compared to 10,327 in 2020.