ADHD Drug Treatments Benefits & Risks

Ritalin is currently the “drug of choice”

Other drugs used are: Adderrall, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana, Desoxyn, Dexedrine, Focalin, Metadate, Methylin, Strattera

ADHD is a North American Phenomenon – over 90% of world’s Ritalin consumed in U.S. & Canada

Ritalin – cocaine for kids?
Ritalin is pharmacologically similar to cocaine. Ritalin is a schedule II drug (controlled substance because of high likelihood of abuse)Ritalin is classified in the same category as cocaine, heroin, opium and morphine

Benefits of Ritalin Treatment
Claims that Ritalin appears to help with concentrationStudies indicate improvement is in classroom manageability rather than academic performance

Side-effects of Ritalin Treatment
Heart beat irregularities
rapid heart beat
Increased blood pressure
Poor growth
Hallucinations
depression,
anxiety,
irritability
Nightmares,
dizziness,
agitation
Weight loss due to loss of appetite
Suicidal feelings,
personality changes
Nausea & muscle cramping