New research suggests that drug treatment for newly diagnosed ADHD patients can lower risks of substance misuse, suicidal behavior, traffic accidents, and criminality, BBC reported.

Affecting around 5 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults globally, ADHD is linked to impulsivity, high energy, and difficulty concentrating. Diagnosis occurs only when symptoms significantly impact daily life.

Published in the British Medical Journal, the study highlights that stimulant medications may provide long-term behavioral benefits alongside managing everyday symptoms, helping patients make informed treatment decisions despite potential side effects, according to BBC.