Ritalin is a commonly prescribed central nervous system stimulant used along with other behavioral therapy to treat children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The drug is causing concern among health professionals, patients and parents due to mounting evidence of adverse side effects. Some of the side effects of Ritalin include increased hyperactivity, seizures, withdrawal, depression, suicidal tendencies, heart attacks, strokes, elevated blood pressure and even death.
Ritalin was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1980 for the purpose of remedying symptoms of ADHD in children and adults. In 2004, following the death of 51 patients taking the Ritalin and other ADHD drugs, the FDA issued a report stating that Ritalin may be associated with severe side effects such as heart attacks, strokes, elevated blood pressure and even death.
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In February 2006, the FDA issued a statement confirming that a "black box" warning will be added to the labeling of Ritalin and other risky ADHD drugs, such as Adderall, due to the potential risk of heart attacks, strokes and increased blood pressure in users. The black box warning is considered to be the most severe cautionary warning issued by the FDA.
Other side effects of Ritalin include:
- Allergic reactions
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Chest pains and high blood pressure
- Unusual behavior and confusion
- Liver damage
- Insomnia
- Nervousness / drowsiness / dizziness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Heart Attacks
- Strokes
- Death
ADHD is a condition that often becomes apparent in children during their early school years. These children have a difficult time controlling their behavior and focusing attention for extended periods of time. It is estimated that nearly 5 percent of children have ADHD, or approximately 2 million children in the United States, putting children at a considerable risk for the adverse side effects of Ritalin and other risky ADHD drugs, such as Adderall.
Characteristics of ADHD include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Since many children may have these symptoms, the need for a thorough examination and appropriate diagnosis by a well-qualified professional is a must. Children are sometimes restless, sometimes act without thinking and sometimes daydream. When the child's hyperactivity begins to affect performance at school, social relationships, or behavior at home, ADHD may then be suspected. A parent should never assume their child has ADHD simply because they are difficult to control.
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