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Early ADHD Treatment Reduces Long-Term Psychosis Risk, Study Finds

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

A study by University College Dublin and the University of Edinburgh finds early methylphenidate treatment for ADHD may lower long-term risk of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 700,000 Finns and found no link to psychosis risk.
A protective effect in children treated before age 13 suggests intervention stabilizes development.
The study does not address other ADHD medications or adult treatment, so more research is needed.

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Story summary

A study by University College Dublin and the University of Edinburgh finds early methylphenidate treatment for ADHD may lower long-term risk of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 700,000 Finns and found no link to psychosis risk.
A protective effect in children treated before age 13 suggests intervention stabilizes development.
The study does not address other ADHD medications or adult treatment, so more research is needed.