Lowering The Age For ADHD

The FDA is being solicited to lower the age of diagnosis of ADHD by the American Pediatric Association from 6 to 4. They argue this would destigmatize the disorder and allow for early intervention. Since non pharmacological intervention requires no approval, it simply lowers the age it’s acceptable to start on stimulant based medications. To 4 years old.
As a psychiatrist, I prescribe medications numerous times daily and certainly do not stand in judgement of my child trained colleagues, but am always dismayed at how quickly ADHD is diagnosed with often the only treatment being stimulants. Psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, family therapy and neurofeedback are extremely effective, but costly, and therefore not considered. Stimulants cause short stature by premature closing of the growth plates and predict addiction and sociopathy later in their users. No one is in favor of denying needed care to children, but a critical assessment is needed first and a cost benefit analysis of any treatment considered. The fears are more kids on stimulants with less thought. 4 years old!