Young Children Prescribed ADHD Medications Too Quickly, Study Finds

A recent study reveals that paediatricians in the United States are often prescribing medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to children as young as four and five years old too quickly after diagnosis. The research, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, indicates that more than 42 percent of young children diagnosed with ADHD received medication within one month of their diagnosis, contrary to established medical guidelines.

Current recommendations suggest that children aged four to five who are newly diagnosed with ADHD should first undergo six months of behavioural therapy before considering medication. The study involved a comprehensive analysis of over 9,700 children in the United States, highlighting a concerning trend in treatment practices.

Dr. Yair Bannett, the lead author and an assistant professor of paediatrics at Stanford University, emphasized the importance of a behavioural approach. “Starting ADHD treatment with a behavioural approach is beneficial,” he stated. “It has a big positive effect on the child as well as on the family.”

ADHD affects an estimated 11.4 percent of children aged three to seventeen in the US, leading to symptoms such as distraction, forgetfulness, and hyperactivity. Early detection and intervention are crucial, as untreated ADHD can significantly impact a child’s academic performance and future opportunities.

The two primary treatment options for ADHD are behavioural therapy, which helps children develop skills for daily functioning, and medications like Ritalin or Concerta, which can alleviate symptoms. While many children benefit from a combination of both treatments, official guidelines recommend that those diagnosed at such a young age should initially focus on behavioural therapy.

Among those studied, only 14.1 percent of the children received medication more than six months after their diagnosis, suggesting a trend towards immediate pharmacological intervention. Dr. Bannett pointed out that part of the issue may stem from limited access to behavioural treatment options.

Although the researchers are not currently concerned about the safety of these medications for young children, there are notable side effects. Some children discontinue use due to irritability, aggression, and emotional changes, leading parents to feel that the side effects outweigh the benefits. “We never think of medication as the only solution for ADHD,” Bannett added.

This study has limitations, primarily its focus on American children, which may not be directly applicable to healthcare practices in Europe or other regions. Previous research indicates that children in North America are significantly more likely to receive ADHD medication compared to their peers in Europe, highlighting disparities in treatment approaches across different healthcare systems.

The findings of this study underscore the need for paediatricians to adhere to established treatment guidelines and consider the long-term benefits of behavioural therapy before resorting to medication for young children diagnosed with ADHD.