Overview
- An analysis of electronic health records from eight U.S. pediatric networks (2016–2023) found 9,708 ADHD diagnoses among 712,478 children ages 3 to 5.
- Within 30 days of diagnosis, 42.2% were prescribed medication, while only 14.1% began treatment more than six months later as guidelines advise.
- About 68% of diagnosed children received medication before age seven, most commonly stimulants.
- The study did not include data on referrals to or completion of behavioral therapy, limiting confirmation that guidelines were attempted first.
- Researchers and clinicians warn young children experience more side effects from stimulants and urge broader access to evidence-based parent training, including low-cost online options.