The use of stimulants to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is widely accepted as safe and effective, provided that prescriptions are made in accordance with medical guidelines. There is a clear body of evidence showing that treating ADHD with stimulants actually reduces the risk of ADHD patients developing a substance-use disorder later in life. However, there have been increasing numbers of reports saying that stimulants prescribed to the general population are being diverted.