Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and dual pathology. Neurobiology and shared vulnerability factors

Patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a high prevalence\r\nof substance use disorder (SUD), and likewise individuals with SUD show more\r\ncommonly than expected a comorbid diagnosis of ADHD, thus presenting a more\r\ncomplex symptom presentation, clinical outcome and overall prognosis, as well a\r\nmore difficult management. In the present paper, it is aimed to explore the evidence\r\non the relationship between ADHD and SUDs, focusing on the neurobiological basis,\r\ndiscussing common brain factors and substrates, genes involved, shared precipitating\r\nfactors to both disorders, as well as the neurobiology of the reinforcement pathway.\r\nThe elevated comorbidity of SUD with ADHD, indicates, as shown in neuroimaging,\r\ngenetic and experimental studies, the presence of some shared underlying neurobiological\r\nsubstrates. In particular, there appears to exist a strong genetic influence that may\r\nunderlie a series of common neurochemical, neuroanatomical and neurophysiological\r\nalterations. A better understanding of these substrates would be of great help to an improved\r\nlearning of this dual diagnosis in a future and help in its diagnosis and treatment

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Authors

  • Fernando Andrés España - Unidad Docente de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset

  • Giovanna Legazpe García - Unidad Docente de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset

  • Monica Miñano Meneres - Unidad Docente de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset

  • Julia Cebrián Gallardo - Unidad Docente de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset

  • Román Calabuig Crespo - Unidad Docente de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset

  • José Martinez-Raga - Unidad Docente de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Peset. Universidad de Valencia y Universidad Cardenal Herrera CEU.

Keywords:

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); substance use disorders; dual diagnosis; neurobiology; vulnerability factors.

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