A major new analysis has found that US paediatricians are often prescribing ADHD medication to very young children far sooner than recommended. Current medical guidelines advise that children aged four and five who are newly diagnosed should first receive six months of behavioural therapy before starting medication.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open and based on data from more than 9,700 children, revealed that 42.2% of young patients were prescribed medication within one month of diagnosis, while only 14.1% began treatment after the recommended six-month period. Lead author Dr Yair Bannett of Stanford University said the findings were “concerning,” stressing that starting treatment with behavioural therapy benefits both children and families.
ADHD, which affects an estimated 11.4% of US children aged three to 17, can lead to distraction, hyperactivity, restlessness, and learning difficulties if untreated. Experts emphasise that while most children benefit from a combination of therapy and medication, early behavioural approaches are essential for long-term development.
Researchers noted that limited access to behavioural therapy may be driving the early reliance on drugs such as Ritalin and Concerta. While the medications are generally considered safe for young children, side effects including irritability and aggression often cause families to stop using them.
The findings highlight a sharp contrast with Europe, where children are significantly less likely to be prescribed ADHD medication compared with those in North America.
