“There are concerns around long-term effects, particularly when we start looking at stimulant medications, which are the mainstay of treatment for ADHD.”

McBride says there is a lack of evidence on the long-term effects of stimulant medications, particularly when it comes to cardiovascular effects.

“We know that in the short term, they can be associated with blood pressure and heart rate increases, which is why we need to be really cautious about who we prescribe to,” he says.

He also notes that stimulant medications are often diverted for non-medical use, particularly among young people.

“It’s important to be aware of that, and be cautious about prescribing medications that could potentially be diverted for non-medical use,” he says.

Conclusion

In conclusion, McBride emphasizes the importance of taking a cautious and thorough approach to diagnosing and treating ADHD.

“We need to be aware of the potential risks of overdiagnosis and over-medication, and be vigilant about our relationships with pharmaceutical companies,” he says.

“ADHD is a serious condition that can have significant impacts on individuals, but we need to ensure that our diagnoses and treatments are evidence-based and carefully considered.”

Listen to the full interview on RNZ.