Comparison of Opioid Use Disorder Patients with and without Problematic Internet Use in Terms of Impulsivity and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

AIMS: This study seeks to investigate ADHD symptoms and impulsivity among individuals diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) who also exhibit symptoms of Problematic Internet Use (PIU).

METHODS: The study involved the participation of 360 Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) patients enrolled at an Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Center (ADATC) during the period from October to December 2022. Various assessment tools were administered, including Young's Internet Addiction Scale (YIAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). Problematic Internet Use (PIU) was identified by YIAS scores equal to or exceeding 50.

RESULTS: The majority of participants diagnosed with OUD showed comorbid PIU with high levels of depression, anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Both BDI and BAI scores showed a significant increase in the PIU group compared to the non-PIU group (p<0.001). Significant differences were observed in BIS Motor Impulsivity, Attentional Impulsivity and Total scores, indicating higher impulsivity in the PIU group (all p<0.001). Additionally, higher ASRS scores were found in the PIU group (p<0.001).

DISCUSSION: These findings highlight the importance of addressing PIU and comorbidities in OUD treatment. Interventions targeting ADHD symptoms and emotional well-being may benefit PIU management.