Early ADHD Treatment with Stimulants May Reduce Psychosis Risk Later in Life

A new study suggests that treating ADHD with stimulant medications in childhood could lower the risk of severe psychotic disorders in later life. Researchers from University College Dublin and the University of Edinburgh analysed health records of nearly 700,000 people in Finland to reach their findings. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, focused on the effects of methylphenidate—a widely used ADHD drug. When treatment started before age 13, it appeared to have a protective effect against conditions like schizophrenia. Researchers also found no evidence that the medication increased the risk of psychotic disorders later in life.

Advanced statistical methods were used to adjust for differences in prescribing habits across regions. The team stressed the importance of early diagnosis, careful clinical evaluation, and evidence-based treatment for ADHD. The findings highlight a potential long-term benefit of early ADHD treatment with stimulants. However, the study did not track changes in methylphenidate prescribing for under-13s in Finland since its publication. Further research may be needed to confirm these results in other populations.