Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and chronic pain: a scoping review of epidemiology, clinical phenotypes, mechanisms, and treatment - Summary - MDSpire
Advertisement
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and chronic pain: a scoping review of epidemiology, clinical phenotypes, mechanisms, and treatment
To systematically map the epidemiological evidence, clinical phenotypes, proposed neurobiological mechanisms, and reported therapeutic interventions related to comorbid ADHD and chronic pain.
Approach:
Literature Search: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library from database inception to December 28, 2025, including 50 studies that met eligibility criteria.
Key Findings:
Improvements in pain outcomes were noted after ADHD-targeted pharmacotherapy based on case reports, though controlled trials are limited.
Interpretation:
ADHD traits may be relevant in a subset of individuals with chronic pain, particularly those with treatment-resistant presentations.
Limitations:
Underdiagnosis of adult ADHD may occur in chronic pain settings, as noted in the literature.
Conclusion:
This review highlights the need for systematic evaluation of the comorbidity between ADHD and chronic pain.
