A new US study has found that children aged four and five are often prescribed ADHD medication immediately after diagnosis, despite medical guidelines recommending six months of behavioural therapy first. The analysis, published in JAMA Network Open, included data from more than 9,700 children.
Lead author Dr Yair Bannett, an assistant professor of paediatrics at Stanford University, described the findings as “concerning,” noting that starting treatment with behavioural therapy has significant benefits for both children and families. ADHD, which affects an estimated 11.4% of US children aged three to 17, can lead to distraction, forgetfulness, hyperactivity, restlessness, and learning difficulties if left untreated.
The study found that 42.2% of young children were prescribed medication within one month of diagnosis, while only 14.1% started medication after six months or more of behavioural therapy. Lack of access to behavioural treatment may contribute to this early reliance on drugs such as Ritalin or Concerta.
While the medications are generally considered safe for young children, side effects like irritability and aggression often lead some families to discontinue use. Experts emphasise that medication should complement, rather than replace, behavioural therapy, especially for children under six.
The findings also highlight a regional difference, as children in North America are far more likely to receive ADHD medication than their peers in Europe.
