OBJECTIVES: The therapy of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) with methylphenidate or atomoxetine, formerly only related to children and adolescents, is now extended to the adult population. Little is known about treatment patterns in Austria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the medication patterns of ADHD in 2012 in Austria, stratified by age and sex. METHODS: The data analysis refers to the accounting data of the 13 major Austrian health insurance funds, covering more than 97% of the Austrian population. Provided in a pseudonymised manner, with availability of the individual patient parameters age and sex, all dispensed medication of methylphenidate or atomoxetine is included in the descriptive analysis. The prevalence of ADHD medication is evaluated regarding age and sex. Furthermore the prescribed daily dose in relation to the defined daily dose is pointed out. RESULTS: 9,120 patients with ADHD medication in 2012 are included in the analysis (22% female). One per cent of all patients with ADHD medication is in the age cohort of under 6 years, 47% are between 6 and 13, 22% are between 14 and 17, and 30% are adults (18+). The relation between the defined daily dose (ddd) to the prescribed daily dose (pdd) shows that 86% of children and adolescents have less than 366 pdd in the whole year and only 1% has more than 732 pdd. 81% of the adults have less than 366 pdd and 6% have more than 732 pdd. CONCLUSIONS: While the variety of prescribed daily dose per patient is homogeneous during childhood and adolescence, this parameter spreads widely in adults. This could be an indicator of overuse or misuse. As the results reflect the prescription reality they can be used as a solid basis for further discussions, future evaluations and interventions about ADHD medication in Austria.