This study explored whether treating adults who have both ADHD and cocaine use disorder (CUD) with extended-release mixed amphetamine salts could help reduce their ADHD symptoms and decrease cocaine use. The researchers believed that higher doses of this medication might be more effective for both conditions. The study combined medication with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to see if this approach could offer better results for these individuals.

The findings suggested that treating ADHD in adults with CUD using higher doses of extended-release mixed amphetamine salts could indeed help reduce cocaine use. However, the researchers caution that while the results are promising, they should be viewed cautiously until further studies confirm these findings. The study also highlighted that safety concerns must be managed carefully, especially when using higher doses of the medication in this population.

The study was conducted as a 13-week, randomized, double-blind trial, meaning neither the participants nor the researchers knew who was receiving the treatment or placebo. The trial included 126 adults who met the criteria for both ADHD and cocaine use disorder, according to the DSM-IV-TR guidelines. Participants were divided into three groups: two groups received different doses (60 mg or 80 mg) of extended-release mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall XR), while the third group received a placebo. All participants also underwent weekly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of counseling aimed at changing patterns of thinking and behavior. The effectiveness of the treatment was measured by a reduction in ADHD symptoms and the number of weeks participants reported being free of cocaine use, confirmed by weekly urine tests.

The results indicated that patients receiving the medication showed a more significant improvement in ADHD symptoms compared to those on placebo. Specifically, 75% of participants on the 60 mg dose and 58.1% on the 80 mg dose saw at least a 30% reduction in ADHD symptoms. In contrast, only 39.5% of those on placebo experienced similar improvements. Furthermore, the odds of having cocaine-free weeks were higher in those receiving the medication. The 80 mg dose was particularly effective, with 30.2% of participants achieving continuous abstinence from cocaine in the last three weeks of the trial, compared to only 7% in the placebo group. This suggests that extended-release mixed amphetamine salts can significantly help reduce cocaine use while also managing ADHD symptoms.

The study concludes that extended-release mixed amphetamine salts, when used in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy, are effective in treating adults with both ADHD and cocaine use disorder. This dual treatment approach not only improves ADHD symptoms but also reduces cocaine use, highlighting the potential benefits of using ADHD medications like Adderall XR in treating substance use disorders. The findings emphasize the need for screening and treating ADHD in adults who present with cocaine use disorder, as addressing both conditions simultaneously can lead to better overall outcomes.