ADHD Drugs include Adderall, Concerta, Cylert, Metadate, Methylin, Ritalin and Strattera
ADHD DRUGS: RITALIN
In mid-1995, about 1.5 million school-age youngsters were taking Ritalin. While some parents and teachers advocate the use of this drug, many more parents and teachers are becoming concerned about the increased rate at which the drug is being prescribed.
Children as young as 4-5 are being placed on Ritalin. Ritalin is supposed to help children concentrate and calm down. The point has correctly been made that it is not abnormal for young children (at least up to the age of 8) to have a high energy level and lack some attentiveness. So why are so many children being prescribed this drug? Some would say that it has replaced the T.V. as a favorite babysitter- it makes children easier to handle.
This medication also has proven to have a high potential for abuse. It is in the same class of drugs as amphetamines, and teenagers are busy snorting it. There is also a weak link between the drug and cancer.
What is Ritalin?
Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a stimulant drug commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. Methylphenidate also is occasionally prescribed for treating narcolepsy. Methylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It has effects similar to, but more potent than, caffeine and less potent than amphetamines. It has a notably calming effect on hyperactive children and a "focusing" effect on those with ADHD.
Why is Ritalin used?
Ritalin is prescribed to treat children with an abnormally high level of activity or ADHD. It is also used occasionally to treat narcolepsy.
What is ADHD?
ADHD - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - is characterized by a increased activity level, agitated behavior, inability to focus on tasks, and impulsivity.
How many people suffer from ADHD?
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 3-5% of the general population has ADHD.
How does Ritalin work?
The drugs stimulate the central nervous system, but no one knows exactly how it works in treating ADHD.
What are the common side effects of Ritalin?
- Nervousness, Tremor
- Headaches
- Anorexia, Nausea
- Increased or Decreased Pulse and Blood Pressure
Why is there a high potential of abuse with Ritalin?
Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant that weaker but still similar amphetamines and cocaine it is also easier to obtain now because the increased number of prescriptions.
Can Ritalin cause cancer?
An animal study of Ritalin has produced a "weak signal" that the drug may have the potential to cause cancer, according to FDA, which has taken steps to alert health professionals to the possible problem.
Ritalin Articles and Information
Study of Ritalin's Cancer-Causing Potential
An animal study of Ritalin (methylphenidate hydrochloride), a stimulant widely prescribed for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), has produced a "weak signal" that the drug may have the potential to cause cancer, according to FDA, which has taken steps to alert health professionals to the possible problem. FULL STORY
Risk of Abuse
Because stimulant medicines have a high potential for abuse, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has placed stringent controls on their manufacture, distribution and prescription. For example, DEA requires special licenses for these activities, and prescription refills aren't allowed. States may impose further regulation, like limiting the number of dosage units per prescription. DEA has repeatedly urged greater caution in use of these drugs, especially in light of their abuse among adolescents and young adults. FULL STORY
Ritalin
Methylphenidate is a medication prescribed for individuals (usually children) who have an abnormally high level of activity or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 3 to 5 percent of the general population has the disorder, which is characterized by agitated behavior and an inability to focus on tasks. Methylphenidate also is occasionally prescribed for treating narcolepsy. FULL STORY
