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ADHD Med Use Hits Record Low in MLB
2 Dec
Summary
- ADHD medication use by players is at a historic low.
- Drug tests collected in the year ending 2025 World Series were nearly record-breaking.
- Two players faced suspensions for positive drug tests.
The number of Major League Baseball players granted permission to use ADHD medication has plummeted to a record low of 54. This figure represents a sharp decline from 61 players last year and a high of 119 in 2013, according to the independent program administrator's annual report. These medications commonly include Adderall, Ritalin, and Vyvanse.
In the year leading up to the 2025 World Series, Major League Baseball administered nearly 11,700 drug tests, a total close to the previous record. This comprehensive testing included both urine and blood samples aimed at detecting prohibited substances like Human Growth Hormone. The report highlighted that only two players on 40-man rosters tested positive, resulting in disciplinary action.
These two positive tests led to 80-game suspensions for Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar for a banned hormone and Philadelphia Phillies closer José Alvarado for external testosterone, reportedly from a weight loss drug. Beyond ADHD, other therapeutic use exemptions were granted for hypertension, sleep disorders, and hormone function.
