Study Reveals Rapid Prescriptions of ADHD Medication to Preschoolers Are Common and Often Contradict Guidelines

Recent research led by Stanford Medicine highlights a concerning trend in the treatment of young children diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The study found that many preschoolers are being prescribed ADHD medications immediately following diagnosis, which conflicts with the treatment guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. According to the guidelines, children aged 4 and 5 should typically undergo at least six months of behavioral therapy before considering medication.

The investigation analyzed electronic health records from nearly 10,000 children across various U.S. pediatric care networks between 2016 and 2023. Results indicated that over 42% of children diagnosed with ADHD received medication within the first month, with only a small percentage (14.1%) starting medication after six months, as recommended. The study suggests that this rapid prescription pattern may be driven by systemic barriers, such as limited access to behavioral therapy options and insurance coverage issues, prompting doctors to opt for medication as a quicker solution.

The study's lead author, Dr. Yair Bannett, emphasized the importance of behavioral interventions, which can include parent training in behavior management to help children develop coping skills and routines. While medications can help alleviate symptoms like hyperactivity and inattentiveness, they can also cause side effects, especially in very young children whose bodies metabolize drugs differently.

Bannett pointed out that early effective treatment, combining behavioral strategies and medication when appropriate, can significantly improve academic outcomes and long-term life skills. He advocates for better access to behavioral therapy resources and increased awareness among pediatricians to ensure that treatment adheres to established guidelines, ultimately offering the best support for these young children.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-adhd-drugs-quickly-preschoolers.html