concerned

I work with a family whose child turned 3 in February and a family practice dr. has dx ADHD and put her on Adderall (adderrall). From our perspective (work with the school district in Early Intervention) the child is three, has little structure at home, limited positive interactions, etc that are impacting her behavior and development and more than likely does not have ADHD.  What are the side effects and risks of starting a child this young on medication for ADHD? The parents are wanting and pushing for the medication, so the accuracy of their report to the dr is questionable and the dr they choose is known to give out medication easily. I worry about the effects on this child and would like to try to educate the parents a bit more of the risks. Thanks

[portuguese mom]

You need to talk to the parents and explain to them what you see.  They should be happy that someone as professional and experienced with children as you is telling them that you do not think that their child has ADD.  You need to ask them to get a second opinion from another Dr. and you might even provide a name of another Dr.. I do not believe that we should medicate children as young as 3.