Is there an age that is too early to begin adhd medications to help with school performance?

Yes: I think any age is too early. I think it is important to find and treat the cause of the symptoms, not to just cover symptoms with drugs. There are many underlying causes and those should all be explored.

No age is important: Prospective studies have clearly demonstrated that the earlier adhd is treated, the less likely it will persist into adulthood. Don't listen to uniformed nay-sayers who have no real knowledge of adhd. Adhd is a significant neurobiological disoder that untreated leads to devasting consequences in later life.

No: Dr block is biased and mistaken about the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of adhd. Her views form a minority of thinking and are anti-scientific. Prospective data clearly shows that the earlier adhd is treated, the more likely it will dissipate in late adolescence or early childhood.

EARLY ADHD: It is fun to see diverging opinions in any subject matter, and as it is usually the case there is validity in most opinions.There is plenty of scientific data that advocates early treatment of adhd to achieve optimal results, but also most experts agree that a proper diagnosis is essential, and that behavioral intervention should be strongly cosidered alone or along with meds in young kids.

Another layer: Early-onset adhd occurs when abnormalities in brain structure or function from a variety of genetic/ medical problems cause disruptive behaviors & hyperactivity/impulsivity that harmfully impact behavior, peer interaction & development pre-academically. Medication management with careful monitoring , behavior therapy, early childhood special ed & parent training need to start early & continue.

6 and above: Officially, psychostimulants (adhd medications) are fda approved for use in kids age 6 yo and above. However, in clinical practice we do used them sometimes in younger age group as well. The important consideration prior to starting the treatment is to make sure that the child does in fact suffer from adhd and to rule out any possible risk factors, including possible cardiac risks.