This article describes the disparate research findings regarding the effects of stimulant medication in subsequent substance abuse and dependence. A minimum of 4 to 5% of children in the United States will be diagnosed with ADHD; thus it is important for parents to be informed when making decisions about the use of stimulant medication to treat symptoms. Considering the inconsistencies in the literature, it is still difficult to determine the true effects of stimulant medication on drug abuse and dependence in adulthood.