Stimulant use has spiked in the post-pandemic era, particularly among young adult women. The latest data point comes from Trilliant Health, which found a 94% increase in stimulant prescriptions for commercially insured women ages 18-44 between 2018 and 2024.
- Among men the same age, Trilliant found a 65% increase. The analysis also found a marked change in who prescribes the drugs.
- In 2018, the top prescriber groups were primary care providers (39% of prescriptions) and psychiatrists (24%).
- By 2024, "allied health" professionals like nurse practitioners and physician assistants had risen to the top spot, responsible for 34% of prescriptions.
The bottom line: The U.S. is still facing an enormous mental health care shortage. Some of the solutions in place may be having unintended consequences.