A study out of Australia is again raising the question of how best to treat kids with ADHD. The study, from Western Australia’s Health Department, found that children who were treated with ADHD medications fared no better in school than those who weren't.

"Parents should be … using the information for making a decision as to what the treatment of their ADHD should be," ABC Australia reported. "Treatment should be a partnership between the parents, teachers and doctors and it does include health check, education support and in some cases, stimulant medication."

Professor Ian Hicke from the Brain and Mind Research Institute told ABC Australia that it's possible that the kids who used ADHD medication were doing worse academically and the medication simply enabled them to perform at normal levels.

Labels: medications, research

Adjusting to college can be a challenge for any student -- but for college students with ADHD, the experience can be significantly more difficult.

Unfortunately, according to a Feb. 14 article by Heather Drost of The Daily Orange (the student newspaper of the University of Syracuse), a recent study indicates that many college students who have ADHD are not receiving the support that they need:

Mark Thomas, a physician at the University of Alabama's student health center, found most campuses are not effectively treating ADHD because they are not prescribing prescriptions for ADHD medications such as Adderall XR, Vyvanse and Ritalin.

"Medications are by far the most effective treatment for students with ADHD," Thomas said.

Thomas conducted research to see how ADHD is diagnosed and treated on college campuses throughout the country. Thomas's study consisted of 124 colleges and universities ranging in size and location. The online survey was sent to hundreds of directors of college health services. ...

Syracuse University's ADHD management runs parallel with the guidelines for treatment that Thomas suggests in his study, said Kathleen VanVechten, associate director of SU Health Services.

Labels: college, medications, students

"Living better through chemistry" is how Huffington Post columnist Michael Laskoff describes life with ADHD and the right medication. In his Thanksgiving article, he not only expressed his gratitude for medication, but offered an innovative explanation of how it works:

For help with that, I turn to baseball. There, individual players with many different talents and propensities can all be compared using a batting average. That single number tells you nothing about a player’s potential, but it does communicate a great deal about his aggregate performance. …

In baseball terms, [people with ADHD] had been hitting a .200 when their natural talents might have led their teachers, employers, family and friends to expect a .400.

Use of the right medication, Laskoff goes on to say, can raise that "batting average" to .300, by helping the person focus, and stay more organized and motivated. Laskoff is not arguing that medication is right for every person who struggles with ADHD. However, the right medication, in the right doses, can improve the quality of life for some, he believes

Labels: medications

Rebecca Riley was diagnosed with ADHD before she turned three. In December 2006, she died. Her parents say pneumonia caused her death. Prosecutors allege that the parents are guilty of giving their child a fatal overdose of ADHD medication.

The Buffalo News reported the following about the case:

Some psychiatrists believe the case illustrates a trend of over-diagnosing young children. …

"There are some kids who need those medicines, but I think you get on a slippery slope when, rather than acknowledging that it's really tough to diagnose this in preschoolers, there's a tendency to say, 'Let’s give her medication,'" said Dr. Oscar Bukstein, a child psychiatrist and professor at the University of Pittsburgh.

A state medical examiner has said that Rebecca’s death was caused by a combination of Clonidine, Depakote, and two over-the-counter drugs – a cough suppressant and an antihistamine. The amount of Clondine alone in Rebecca’s system was enough to be fatal.

The doctor who prescribed the medication says she warned Rebecca’s parents about the dangers of overdose, and is scheduled to testify in the trial.

Labels: laws, medications

Researchers have discovered that the anti-seizure drug divalproex may help control overly aggressive behaviors in children with ADHD.

A Dec. 14 Reuters Health article provided the following details about the divalproex study, which conducted at New York’s Stony Brook University School of Medicine:

• Half of the children received divalproex in addition to their regular ADHD treatment, while half received a placebo, or inactive, pill, plus their usual medications.
• All of the children's families had weekly behavioral therapy.
• Three of the children either left the study before it was completed, or could not be found for follow-up testing.
• Eight of 14 patients in the divalproex group exhibited less aggressive behavior, compared to just 2 of 13 in the placebo group.
• Although the drug was generally well-tolerated, some children taking it experienced feelings of sadness and trouble falling asleep.

The Stony Brook study was published in the December 2009 edition of the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Labels: medications

New guidelines from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) advise healthcare providers not to use medication as a first-line treatment for children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

A Dec. 1 article by Jennifer Joseph of the Australian website pharmacynews.com.au provided the following information about the policy change:

RACP chairman David Forbes said the new "multimodal" treatment approach would result in fewer children on drugs. "Treatment may include education, psychosocial strategies, behavioral management and changes in nutrition and medication," he said. …

The draft guidelines, which are awaiting formal consideration from the council of the NHMRC, were released despite relying on the research of a US academic whose integrity was under investigation.

"I am pleased that we can finally provide this more up-to-date information on ways to identify and care for those in our community who may be suffering from ADHD," Federal Health Minister Nicola Roxon said.

Labels: medications, therapy, treatment

The biopharmaceutical corporation Shire has announced a voluntary recall of six lots of Daytrana, a medication patch used to treat ADHD. According to a Dec. 3 article in the Philadelphia Business Journal, Shire says the recall is not a safety issue, but a functional one:

The company said patients and caregivers could have difficulty removing the liners. “Some Daytrana patches do not meet or in the future may not meet their release liner removal specification,” the company said.

The company stressed the action is not due to safety issues. "All Daytrana patches can continue to be used unless the release liner cannot be removed or the patches are damaged while being opened," Shire officials said.

In a Dec. 7 article on the website bnet.com, journalist and drug marketing expert Jim Edwards wrote that the latest recall should prompt Shire to end production of Daytrana:

This is the eighth recall of the Daytrana patch, a product on which Shire’s manufacturer, Noven, makes no profit because recall costs far exceed the revenues it gets from selling the thing, according to Noven’s most recent 10-Q. Daytrana’s marketing is already under investigation by the feds.

It’s time to say it out loud: The Daytrana ADHD patch does not work, never has done, and should be quietly ditched by Shire and Noven before the FDA wakes up.

Labels: medications, patch, recall

Dr. Charles Parker has researched the new ADHD medication Intuniv, and reported his finding in a Nov. 28 post on CorePsych Blog. Intuniv (generic name: guanfacine) is a pill that, in case studies, has remained effective for as long as 24 hours.

"There will be few problems with dosing as Intuniv comes closer to absolute simplicity than many of the other ADHD meds," Dr. Parker wrote. "Most [people] did well at 3mg. The dosage is often weight related, but not always… It has an excellent effect on simple inattentive ADD, just for attention, and is approved by the FDA for ADHD."

Dr. Parker reported that first line indications for Intuniv may include Oppositional Defiant Disorder, anger, frustration, and irritation, in spite of doing well on other ADHD meds.

Intuniv is different than most ADHD medications in that it is not a stimulant. According to a Sep. 6 Medical News Today article, Intuniv is "the first selective alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist approved for the treatment of ADHD."

Labels: intuniv, medications

Parents of children with ADHD have many concerns when it comes to medication. One of the more common is the possibility that ADHD drugs could cause mood swings. Mental health expert Dr. Charles Raison recently addressed mood swing issues in an edition of CNN’s Expert Q&A.:

The first thing to assess is whether the child might be abusing the stimulant. Stimulants are among the safest of all psychiatric medications when used as prescribed. But they are also prone to abuse, and in high doses they frequently produce all sorts of sinister side effects, including frank psychosis.

Raison also advised parents to take note of when the mood swings started or became worse. Does there seem to be a correlation between the mood swings and the time your child started taking ADHD medication? Talk with your child’s doctor and explore the possibilities. Remember, there are many medication options for treating ADHD.

Source: CNN

Labels: medications, mood_disorders

Today, more children in Denmark are on medication for the treatment of ADHD than ever before. The number of children being treated jumped 40 percent from 2007 to 2008, according to the Association of Danish Pharmacies.

“Experts are astounded by the rapid increase and questioning why a more holistic approach involving psychological treatment for children with ADHD isn’t being promoted," The Copenhagen Post has reported.

A senior physician from the Zealand Health Region speculates that prescriptions have increased not because other treatments are unavailable, The Post reported, but simply because parents have become accustomed to using medication.

Labels: medications

Health Canada recently released a statement warning of potential psychotic reactions to ADHD medications. The public advisory also said that patient and labeling information will be changed to reflect "the potential for psychiatric adverse affects."

The new safety concerns come four months after Health Canada warned ADHD drugs can carry rare heart risks, including a risk of sudden death.

That public advisory cautioned that any child or adult with high blood pressure, heart disease or heart abnormalities, hardening of the arteries or an overactive thyroid gland should not use Ritalin or seven other medications. (Source: Canwest News Service)

The same drugs are mentioned in this new advisory: Ritalin and Ritalin SR, Adderall XR, Attenade, Biphentin, Concerta, Dexedrine and Strattera. Heath Canada expects label changes to be complete by December, Canwest News reported.

Labels: Canada, dangers, medications, warnings

Edmund Higgins, a clinical associate professor of family medicine and psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina, expressed his concern about the long-term use of ADHD medication in an article that appeared in the July 2009 edition of the journal Scientific American Mind.

A smattering of recent studies, most of them involving animals, hint that stimulants could alter the structure and function of the brain in ways that may depress mood, boost anxiety and, contrary to their short-term effects, lead to cognitive deficits.

Human studies already indicate the medications can adversely affect areas of the brain that govern growth in children, and some researchers worry that additional harms have yet to be unearthed. ...

In light of the emerging evidence, many doctors and researchers are recommending a more cautious approach to the medical use of stimulants.

Some are urging the adoption of strict diagnostic criteria for ADHD and a policy restricting prescriptions for individuals who fit those criteria. Others are advocating behavior modification -- which can be as effective as stimulants over the long run -- as a first-line approach to combating the disorder.

Labels: long_term_effects, medications

The University of Pittsburgh’s Youth and Family Research Program is recruiting children ages 6 to 12 who have been diagnosed with ADHD. The children will participate in a treatment study that will measure the safety and effectiveness of a long-acting form of Ritalin.

"During the first three weeks, all children will begin on a low dose of methylphenidate (commonly known at Ritalin) while parents receive an 11-session course of parenting training," the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported. "Over the next six weeks, half of the children will be randomly assigned to receive risperidone … in addition to methylphenidate, and half will receive a placebo."

The study will last for months. For more information, e-mail Heidi Kipp at kipphl@upmc.edu

Labels: medications, research

The global biopharmaceutical company Shire has received approval from the FDA to begin selling INTUNIV™, an extended release tablet that is used to treat ADHD in people ages 6 to 17 years old.

“Once-daily INTUNIV is expected to be available in US pharmacies in November and will come in four dosage strengths (1mg, 2mg, 3mg, and 4mg).

INTUNIV will be marketed in the United States by the existing Shire ADHD sales team of nearly 600 representatives. INTUNIV is not a controlled substance and has no known potential for abuse or dependence.” (Source: News-Medical.net)

The efficacy of INTUNIV was established in two separate, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials in children ages 6 to 17 years. In both trials, significant reductions of ADHD symptoms were demonstrated in the patients taking INTUNIV. Improvements became statistically significant one to two weeks after INTUNIV was administered.

Labels: FDA, medications

A new study from the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that more teenagers and their parents are seeking help from poison control centers because of incidents involving drugs for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

The number of poison control center calls related to the abuse of ADHD medication has increased by 76 percent since 2001.

About 42 percent of the people who called poison control centers because of reactions to ADHD drugs ended up in emergency rooms, and four people died.

Labels: abuse, medications

Barr Laboratories, Inc. has initiated a recall of ADHD medication that it says may exceed weight requirements and could cause an over-dose if taken. The pills come from lot number 311756, the only lot affected by the recall.

An Aug. 14 Kentucky Post provided the following details about the recall:

Barr Laboratories, Inc. is initiating a voluntary recall of Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Amphetamine Aspartate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate and Amphetamine Sulfate (Mixed Salts of a Single Entity Amphetamine Product) 20mg Tablets, 100 count bottles, lot number 311756.

The product identified is being recalled because the affected lot may contain some tablets exceeding weight requirements which may lead to super-potent tablets.

This product can be uniquely identified as an oval peach colored tablet, debossed with b/973 on one side and 2/0 on the other side. Barr distributed the affected lot between 06/11/09 and06/16/09. ... Customers who have this lot in their possession are instructed to cease using the product and return it to their pharmacy/distributor.

An overdose of this medication can lead to cardiovascular, neurologic, psychiatric and gastrointestinal reactions, the Post reported, though Barr Laboratories has not yet received notification of any adverse affects for this product lot.

For more information about this recall, call 888-742-5578 (Mondays to Fridays, 8 a.m to 8 p.m. EDT).

Labels: medications, recall

ADHD medication can help people focus, but doesn't necessarily make them smarter. Claire Advokat and Sean Lane, professors in the Department of Psychology at Louisiana State University, want to find out why.

"Given their well-established benefit for increasing attention and concentration, it seems counterintuitive that ADHD medications are not more effective in improving academic and occupational attainment," Advokat said in a release that was posted on the LSU website "It is time to address this question and clarify the cognitive effects, as opposed to the activating, arousing and energizing actions of these drugs."

A grant from the Spencer Foundation will fund Professors Advokat and Lane as they determine whether ADHD drugs have real academic benefits.

Labels: academics, focus, medications, research

While hallucinations can be a side effect of ADHD medication, a review of clinical trials has found the occurrence is rare.

HealthDay News reported the following about research conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration:

The FDA experts reviewed the results of 49 randomized, placebo-controlled trials and asked drug manufacturers to analyze their post-marketing surveillance databases. They found that 11 psychosis or mania episodes occurred for every 743 person-years of treatment.

According to HealthDay News, Dr. Roy Boorady, director of the psychopharmacology service at New York University’s Child Study Center, said sleep problems and loss of appetite are much more common side effects of ADHD medications.

Dr. William Cohen of the Child Development Unit, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, reminded parents that side effects are common with any medication, and occurrences should be discussed with a child's doctors.

Labels: medications, side_effects

Consumer Reports has warned parents to be wary of any free samples they get from their doctors for the treatment of ADHD. The samples are often for high-priced, brand-name drugs that could be replaced with a generic brand:

Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs says it found two generic ADHD drugs, dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate, are as safe and effective as well-known drugs like Adderall XR, Concerta or Strattera.

Its concern is that parents, after first using the more-expensive drugs they get as free samples, will stick with those drugs because they know how their kids react to them.

Parents can save considerable amounts of money by using the less-expensive medications.

Labels: medications, warnings

A June 20 article on the Des Moines Register website revealed that the area experienced a spike in cases of ADHD medication abuse that resulted in hospitalization. Writer Tony Leys reported that the cases involved individuals between the ages of 13 and 24:

The misused drugs reportedly included Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta. The patients' symptoms included tremors, vomiting and racing hearts.

[Linda Kalin, director of the Iowa Statewide Poison Control Center] said two of the patients intentionally misused the drugs to stay alert while studying. The other five apparently were trying to use the drugs to get high. ...

The Iowa Department of Public Health said a 2008 survey of Iowa teenagers found that four percent reported using prescription medications without a doctor's prescription.

ADHD medications and other prescription drugs are being abused in ever-increasing numbers by adolescents, teenagers, and adults in the United States and other countries. The problem of prescription drug abuse has become so widespread it has been referred to as an "invisible epidemic."

Labels: abuse, medications

Researchers have found that ADHD medication may create a "placebo effect" in caregivers who are supervising children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder:

A review of studies suggests that teachers, parents, and others may 'see' improvements in a child's behavior if they believe the child is on medication to control ADHD symptoms, even when real medication is not being given.

Researchers say caregivers may exhibit more understanding, which could in turn actually lead to improved behavior in a child. (Source: United Press International)

In a June 30 article, ADDitude Magazine reported that the ADHD medication researchers' next plan is to observe parents' and children’s reactions under the following three conditions: after the children receive a real pill, after they receive a placebo, and after they receive no pill.

Labels: caregivers, medications, placebo

A recent study of ADHD medication reported that kids who take certain prescription drugs for ADHD symptoms may be at increased risk for sudden death. The news shocked many parents, and doctors are worried that some may take their children off their medications without consulting their doctors.

Dr. Ellen Schumann with the Ministry Medical Group says, "[ADHD] is also a condition that can be life threatening. Those kids don't have the ability to stop and think before they do. Their accident rate is much higher. They engage in risky behaviors." (Source: WAOW-TV - Wisconsin)

Doctors continue to encourage concerned parents to talk to their children's pediatricians to better understand whether the risk of sudden death applies to their child, and to discuss possible alternatives to medication.

Labels: medications, risks

A new study that was released in the American Journal of Psychiatry has caused concern among officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, who are worried that parents will take their kids off ADHD medication without warning -- and without considering the risks. The study found that kids who take ADHD medication were six to seven times more likely to die suddenly for unexplained reasons than their peers.

The study was partially funded by [the] Food and Drug Administration, but agency experts said its methods -- which relied on interviews with parents years after a child’s death -- may have caused errors. The agency urges parents to discuss safety concerns with their doctor, but to keep children on the treatments. (Source: The Associated Press)

The FDA also said that it is in the process of collecting larger amounts of data for a more in-depth study of the benefits and dangers of ADHD medications, though it gave no timeline for when that study might be completed.

Labels: dangers, medications, research

A Norwegian study of 24 boys (ages 8 to 12) has led researchers to conclude that a single dose of the popular ADHD medication Ritalin can lead to short-term improvements in muscle control and movement among children with a specific type of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Amy Norton of the Reuters News Service reported on the study in a June 4 article:

The study, reported in the online journal Behavioral and Brain Functions, focused on 24 boys newly diagnosed with hyperkinetic disorder (HKD), a diagnosis nearly identical to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder-combined type (ADHD-C).

Children with ADHD-C commonly have increased muscle tension, which can hinder normal movement. This, in turn, may manifest as problems such as stiffness, restlessness as a child repeatedly shifts to get comfortable, and even poor handwriting, explained Liv Larsen Stray of the University of Stavanger, the lead researcher on the study.

"Our study shows that a single dose of methylphenidate typically led to improvement of the muscular tone and to a more fluent movement in children with ADHD-C/HKD," Stray told Reuters Health.

Stray's report was first published May 13 on the website of the journal Behavioral and Brain Functions.

Labels: Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder, medications, motor_skills, ritalin

In response to a parent's question about the wisdom of allowing her 16-year-old daughter to stop taking medication for her Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder during summer vacation, educational psychologist Brent Cooper cited concerns about safety and socializations. The exchange was published in the June 6 edition of the Palm Springs, Calif., newspaper The Desert Sun:

In the summer, even if things seem OK at home, an ADHD symptom like impulsivity could cause your teenage daughter more difficulties with her peers, social situations and safety than you realize.

Dr. Daniel J. Fitzgerald III, a Palm Desert psychiatrist, said, "It's proven that teenagers with ADHD who take their meds have a much lower rate of car accidents than their peers with ADHD who don't take their medication. During the summer when your child is biking, skateboarding, and around pools and boats, safety is a big concern. It's only logical that a child or teen who's not distracted and is paying good attention to what they're doing will have fewer accidents."

"No matter what you decide," Cooper wrote to the parent, "you must talk to your youngster's pediatrician or psychiatrist before stopping any medication that's been prescribed."

Echoing Cooper's advice, Molly Shannon-Blake, MSW, of Talisman Camps in North Carolina, cautions parents against allowing their children to take an ADHD medication vacation if the children will be attending summer camp or a similar program.

Labels: Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder, medications, summer_camp

An eight-year study of children with Attention Deficit Disorder Hyperactivity Disorder found that children do not outgrow their symptoms even after receiving treatment.

The authors of the study, which was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (and which appeared in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry), concluded that this may mean that people who have ADHD during childhood should continue to take medication for the disorder even as adults.

The study's 579 subjects were between the ages of 7 and 9 years old at the beginning of the study. For a 14-month period, the children underwent one of four treatment types (medication alone, behavioral therapy alone, or combinations of the two). The combination treatment worked the best to mitigate symptoms.

The researchers checked the children two, three, six, and eight years later. By the time they were in late adolescence, many of them had stopped taking medications for their ADHD symptoms, and these symptoms had returned.

As the summer months approach, experts advise parents not to make changes to their children's ADHD meds, or to allow their children to take a "medication vacation," especially if the children will be attending an ADHD summer camp or other organized seasonal activity.

Labels: Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder, medications, symptoms

A small study that was published in the March 2009 issue of the Journal of Dietary Supplements indicates that Panax ginseng may be able to alleviate some symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

"Although the sample size is very small [three youth between the ages of 14 and 17] and generalization is very difficult, this observation indicates that Panax ginseng may be a slightly effective treatment for ADHD," the study's author, H. Niederhofer, reported in the abstract of the study. Niederhofer is affiliated with Regional Hospital Bozen in Bolzano, Italy

In a May 19 article on the about.com Alternative Medicine Blog, Cathy Wong reported that previous studies into Panax ginseng indicate that the herb may help boost immunity, improve mood, and control diabetes. "Another form of the herb (American ginseng) has been found to benefit children with ADHD when combined with ginkgo biloba," Wong wrote.

With summer approaching, most ADHD experts advise parents not to change their child's meds or allow them to take a "medication vacation," especially if the child will be attending a summer camp for kids with ADHD or other type of seasonal program.

Labels: Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder, herbs, medications

Nathan Herring is an adult who was diagnosed with ADHD when he was in third grade. He was put on Ritalin, and says it helped him focus and behave better at home. Even with positive stories like this, though, some parents are hesitant about putting their children on ADHD medication. Jean Enerson of King 5 News in Seattle, Washington, addressed this topic in a May 10 segment:

[Dr. Chris Varley] says a child on ADHD medication should stick with it for a year to see if it helps. Be sure your child's doctor tells you about side effects ...

"You should be measuring on a regular basis their height and weight, and you also should be measuring, probably as importantly, their pulse and blood pressure," said Dr. Varley.

Dr. Varley offered these cautions in response to studies that have found long-term use of ADHD medication can affect height and weight, and may exacerbate heart conditions.

There are no clear "one-size-fits-all" answers about whether or not a child should use prescription medication, and parents are encouraged to consult with a variety of experts to ensure that they have all necessary information to make informed decisions about their children's use of ADHD medications.

Labels: Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder, long_term_effects, medications

An Australian newspaper has reported that high school and university students in that country are stealing ADHD medications from younger siblings because of a mistaken belief that the stolen ADHD meds will help them perform better in school.

According to a May 12 article by Daily Telegraph writers Kate Sikora and Janet Fife-Yeomans, Australian health care experts are warning that the illicit use trend -- which they say originated in the United States -- can pose significant health risks:

The "sporadic phenomenon" is concerning doctors and teachers, who have warned students they are placing themselves in danger. ...

The misuse of ADHD medication comes as the manufacturers of the three longer-lasting methylphenidate drugs, marketed as Concerta, have recently added a "black box" warning of sudden death for adult users.

It warned that stroke and myocardial infarction had been reported in adults taking ADHD drugs.

The misuse of ADHD medications and other prescription drugs has been on the rise in recent years, with many young people needing residential substance abuse treatment in order to escape their dependence upon these dangerous drugs.

Labels: medications, prescription_drugs

Lawrence Diller, a member of the clinical faculty at the University of California-San Francisco, thinks that college students who are misusing the prescription drug Adderall need some guidance. The medication is designed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, but it often gets used by stressed out students who need a little extra "boost" when studying for exams or finishing projects.

Adderall’s most consistent effect is to give users the sense that they are doing better in their tasks ... Therefore, they perform at least a little better in reality, yet not as well as they think

If you’re doing Adderall on a regular basis to cope, you may soon also need another drug. Perhaps it will be Xanax ... If you’re using Adderall to get high, you are running the same risks of getting truly caught up with one of the worst drug addictions possible. Source: The Crimson (Harvard Newspaper)

Diller goes on to suggest that students who are engaging in Adderall abuse in order to cope with their collegiate workload may be better off re-evaluating their goals and career path. If the track they’re currently on is too much for them to handle with normal coping mechanisms, they may benefit from pursuing a different educational path.

Labels: abuse, adderall, college, medications

Long hailed as the best treatment for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, medication is coming up against some sharp criticism. The critics are the authors, and some readers, of a recent study that found that the effects of ADHD meds diminish over time.

[The] Multimodal Treatment Study that helped popularize ADHD drugs when it found in 1999 that they were more effective than behavioral therapy in the first 14 months ... now reports the advantage is gone by the three-year mark. By the six- and eight-year marks, across 30 measures of behavior and academics, the children still being given medication by their parents 'fared no better than their non-medicated counterparts...' (Source: USA TODAY)

In light of this new information, and because of the risks that are associated with medication, some parents are opting for behavioral therapy and other forms of treatment for their children. The results of the study don't mean that medication is useless, experts advise, but simply that it should be part of a multi-faceted approach.

Labels: Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder, medications, studies, therapy

Shire, plc, has announced that it is withdrawing its European Marketing Authorization Application (MAA) for Daytrana®, an ADHD medication. Daytrana® is a patch, developed for children ages six to 12, that releases a steady, low dose of ADHD medication for up to 9 hours.

"Shire stated that its decision to withdraw the MAA was based on the fact that European regulatory authorities had requested an addiction clinical study for Daytrana® in a European patient population, and that Shire planned to enter the European ADHD market through the previously-announced acquisition of a... product that is already approved in Europe."

Shire will continue to market Daytrana® in the United States, where it has already been subjected to clinical tests and approved. Source: BusinessWire

Labels: medications, patch, treatment

Makers of the drug Seroquel are attempting to keep sealed hundreds of pages of drug study results, saying it is in the public's best interest. About 15,000 patients who have been prescribed the drug disagree, and have filed over 9,000 personal injury lawsuits stating the drug has caused weight gain and diabetes.

"Seroquel is approved only for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but its use for everything from depression to insomnia to ADHD in kids is so widespread that the drug has been prescribed for more than 22 million patients."

The company's maker, AstraZeneca, says releasing the documents "could jeopardize public safety by causing confusion and alarm in patients, who may then discontinue their medication..." A hearing is scheduled to take place in Orlando this month - a hearing AstraZeneca wants closed to the public because sensitive information will be discussed. Source: St. Petersburg Times

Labels: drug_study, medications, side_effects

Two Keystone (Lagrange, OH) High School students have been suspended for supposedly buying Adderall from fellow students, the latest in a series of suspensions resulting from the illicit distribution of these drugs.

"The teens received the same punishment as three girls who were accused of selling the drug generally used to treat attention-deficit and hyperactivity to other students earlier this month."

Another student was also suspended for buying the drug. The suspensions will likely lead to expulsions, and the school's assistant principal says his investigation is ongoing. Source: Chronicle-Telegram (OH)

Labels: drugs, medications, students

Shire plc, maker of the ADHD medication Vyvanse, has acquired the worldwide rights to a medication called Equasym - which is also used for the treatment of ADHD.

"This acquisition will broaden the scope of Shire's ADHD portfolio and will facilitate immediate access to the European ADHD market as well as provide Shire the opportunity to enter additional world markets."

The agreement between Shire and Equasym maker UCB was announced yesterday. Shire will reportedly pay UCB about $70 million in exchange for the acquisition. Source: PR Newswire

Labels: medications, treatment

Medication is expensive. And drugs that are designed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are no exception. When faced with the high cost of prescription medication, many people chose generic versions over name-brand pills. But are the generic drugs really as effective as the name-brand varieties?

"Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), generic drugs contain the same active ingredients, dosage and quality as their brand-name counterparts. The only difference between are the name... shape and color of the drug... and price."

Because generic drug manufacturers don't have to recover millions of dollars spent on research and development, they can offer the same drug at a much lower price. However, not all name-brand prescriptions have a generic counterpart. The easiest way to find out what's available is to ask a pharmacist or check online. Source: Upstate Today (South Carolina)

Labels: generics, medications

A recent study by St. Louis University indicates that medication use among children in the United States is increasing drastically. Medications are being prescribed to children in record numbers to treat diabetes, asthma, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Researchers hypothesize that increasing levels of childhood obesity may be catalyzing this trend.

Study co-author Dr. Donna Halloran, assistant professor of pediatrics at St. Louis University, commented on the findings:

"Across all the medication classes we looked at, the rates of use increased—sometimes dramatically. ... This is particularly concerning, given that several of these diagnoses have been linked to obesity—diabetes, hypertension, depression, asthma."

In recent years, the study reports, use of a particular drug to treat type 2 diabetes has increased by 100 percent, while prevalence of the condition itself has increased by over 130 percent among girls ages 10 to 19. (Sources: health.usnews.com)

Labels: medications, obesity

Three widely prescribed medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall - do not cause genetic damage linked to an increased risk of cancer, according to research from Duke University. This new study refutes a previous one that showed that methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Ritalin and Concerta, is associated with increased risk for cancer.

The new Duke study used a larger sample size and a wider cross-section of children with Attention Deficit Disorder compared to previous studies.

"We looked at three common markers associated with damaged chromosomes and did not find increased genetic abnormalities in children taking either medication, regardless of a variety of factors, such as age, sex, body weight, height, race, and ADHD subtype," said author Scott Kollins. Kollins was referring to methylphenidate and amphetamine, the active ingredient in Adderall.

About two million American children have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

This study appeared in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.

Labels: cancer, medications, side_effects

A new government-sponsored study found that children with anxiety disorders improved the most when treated with a popular antidepressant along with psychotherapy.

Scientists from the National Institutes of Health studied 488 children ages 7 to 17 years old who have anxiety disorders. One fourth of the children took Sertraline (Zoloft); one fourth took Sertraline along with psychotherapy; one fourth had psychotherapy alone; and one fourth took placebos only. After three months, the children in the combined treatment group had the best results, with 81 percent showing improvement. In the therapy-only group, 60 percent improved, compared to a 55 percent improvement rate in the drug-alone group. Among the children who took placebos, 24 percent improved.

Anxiety affects about 20 percent of American children. Some become so tense that they will not leave their homes, refuse to sleep alone, etc. They can develop phobias and severe social anxiety, which can limit their participation in class discussions and other situations. "Improvement" in the NIH study meant that the children were able to do things they had refused to do before, such as sleep by themselves.

This study appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Labels: anxiety, depression, medications

Over 3,000 people go to hospital emergency rooms each year because of accidental overdoses of medications prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, according to a new study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Parents could prevent two-thirds of these emergencies by simply locking away the medications, which include Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta, and other stimulants. About five million Americans take such drugs, and most (3.3 million) are under 19 years old.

Some of the emergencies were serious. One in five patients were hospitalized, one in five needed stomach pumping, and one in seven had heart problems. Common symptoms included rashes, spasms, muscle weakness, and abdominal pain.

This was the first study of ER visits and ADHD drugs. A prior study found that 25 people died between 1999 and 2003 from reactions to these common drugs, and 54 others developed heart problems.

This new study appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Labels: hospitals, medications

The British advisory body that determines guidelines for doctors has warned that Ritalin should only be prescribed to children as a last resort. The organization has also advised that children under five not be given the medication at all.

"[The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence], which decides on the guidelines given to doctors, says parents should be taught how to manage their child's disorder instead. The advisory body and the National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health are aiming to provide a blueprint of best practice with the new guidelines."

The cause of ADHD is uncertain, though both genetic and environmental factors are thought to be factors. Source: Southern FM (Brighton, UK)

Labels: medications, pediatricians, side_effects

Depakote and Risperdal are intended for use in the treatment of bipolar disorder, but doctors have long prescribed them for the most extreme cases of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children. Now, the National Institute of Mental Health is funding a study to determine which of these medications works best, and at what dose.

"The study... will include about 140 children between 6 and 13 - about a third of them in San Antonio. Stony Brook School of Medicine in New York, which is leading the study, and North Shore-LLC Health System's Feinstein Institute Research in New York are the other two sites."

All three sites are currently seeking families with children who have extreme cases of ADHD, such as explosive bouts of rage, and sudden, unprovoked aggression. All children will first be treated for hyperactivity, and will receive behavioral therapy for their aggression. Source: My San Antonio News

Labels: bipolar_disorder, medications, treatment

One of the most common treatments for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is stimulant medication. But it seems counterproductive to treat hyperactivity symptoms with stimulants, so why do they work?

"In all of our brains, there is a portion that deals with matters of impulse suppression and control. It is this center that gives us the ability to focus on things that don't interest us... to be patient... and to remember... But for those with ADHD, there is, for some reason, a shortage of electrical activity in these portions of the brain."

Stimulant medication works because it increases activity in the part of the brain that controls impulses, helping someone with ADHD to focus, becoming less fidgety and more patient. Source: Associated Content

Labels: medications, stimulants, treatment

Concerns have been raised in Canada about the safety of Strattera, a non-stimulant drug intended to treat symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children. The drug was made available to the public amid praises that it was the first non-stimulant medication that had been effective in the treatment of ADHD.

"New questions are being raised about a drug used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder amid reports more than 40 Canadian kids have attempted suicide after taking it... Health Canada said it received 189 reports of adverse reactions associated with the non-stimulant drug... Strattera, from the time it was put on the market in February 2005, to the end of last year."

University researchers and doctors are urging parents to educate themselves on possible side effects of all drugs used to treat ADHD, as some health risks are not widely publicized. Source: The London Free Press

Labels: medications, safety

For many kids, their favorite part of the school year is, well, summer. They don't have to get up early, don't have to do homework, and may not have to take their Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder medication.

"Some parents make the decision to give their child a break from medication when their child's primary issues with ADHD are related to concentration and focus and their symptoms are fairly mild. In other words, they have no other significant behavioral or social issues related to their ADHD, and summer time experiences would be just as positive on or off medication."

Taking children off their ADHD medication is not a decision parents should make lightly. If you're considering taking your child off her medication for the summer, take into account her need for structure and routines, her level of attentiveness and her ability to get along with others.

And, of course, consult your child's doctor before making any final decision. Source: About.com

Labels: behavior, concentration, medications

School breakfast programs are provided at many public schools and help ensure that students get the food and fuel they need for their day. But the programs can cause unexpected issues for children who take medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Children who participate in school breakfast programs often take their medication before leaving the house. Not only can that cause serious side effects, but it can reduce the effectiveness of the medication, making it difficult to gauge how well the medicine is working.

"All stimulants often create significant medications problems when given on an empty stomach - from Concerta, to Adderall, to Vyvanse, and even the non-stimulant, less effective Strattera, should be given to children following breakfast."

Source: CorePsych

Labels: interactions, medications, side_effects

Stimulant medications like Ritalin have long been used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Though Ritalin is known to be effective, only recently has the medical community begun to understand how it works.

"In a paper published online this week in Biological Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison psychology researchers David Devilbiss and Craig Berridge report that Ritalin fine-tunes the functioning of neurons in the prefrontal cortex - a brain region involved in attention, decision-making and impulse control - while having few effects outside it."

This is good news for parents who worry that Ritalin could be damaging to other parts of the brain.. While high doses of the medication could still pose problems, clinically accurate (low) doses are proving to be safe and effective. Source: MediLexicon News

Labels: medications, research, stimulants

A Lubbock, Texas, mother is in custody pending possible criminal charges after her toddler overdosed on medication designed to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The woman gave the medication to her two-year-old daughter, who doesn't have ADHD, which caused the child to become sick and unresponsive.

"'In this particular instance, you're dealing with ADHD and ADD. That particular treatment is designed to offset chemical imbalances in the brain, and if that medication is not intended for that particular individual, you can get all kinds of bad effects,' [Lubbock Police Sergeant Ross] Hester said."

The girl and her sibling are now in protective custody, and their mother faces child-endangerment charges. Source: KCBD TV

Labels: medications, preschoolers, side_effects

It was an unintentional but beneficial discovery. A team of researchers at Darby Children's Research Institute discovered a gene mutation that plays a direct role in the effectiveness of Ritalin when treating ADHD. The discovery could make it possible to pre-test patients and determine whether certain medications will work.

"Imagine the relief a patient or parent of a treated child might feel, having access to advance testing to be sure that they can adequately metabolize this medication and avoid adverse effects..."

Though the mutated gene was discovered because of its adverse effect on Ritalin, researchers believe it may affect other medications as well. Source: Medical News Today

Labels: genetics, medications, treatment

In the wake of a recent statement by the American Heart Association that kids on ADHD medication should get an EKG to rule out heart problems, doctors on both sides of the argument have voiced their opinions. While some agree with the recommended preventative measure, others aren't so sure.

"...some physicians have balked at the EKG recommendation, saying that half of the children who died [due to ADHD medication-related heart problems] took unintentional overdoses of the drugs. And even the American Heart Association points out that ADHD medications haven't been shown to cause heart conditions or sudden cardiac death."

While the medications don't cause heart conditions, they can aggravate existing conditions. Parents need to determine what they think is best for their child and act accordingly. Source: Orlando Sentinel

Cedars Academy is an ADHD private school that offers a safe, nurturing environment that educates "the whole child". Learn more at CedarsAcademy.com.

Labels: heart_test, medications

ADHD medication can work wonders in managing ADHD symptoms for children who have been properly diagnosed. But it's important to know how the medication will interact with other medications; cold medicine, allergy medicine, and even vitamin C can negate the effects of some ADHD medications.

"[Dr. Oluwole] Olusola said the smart thing to do is to be informed. 'Parents should, depending on which medication their child is on, obtain from the pharmacy a list of foods or medications which will counteract the medication in a negative way,' Olusola said."

It's important for parents to take charge and be responsible, taking the initiative to ensure that a child's medication has the best chance of being effective. Source: Mental Hope News

ADD boarding schools help by offering teaching styles geared towards children with ADHD. Find one at TeenBoardingSchools.com.

Labels: diagnosis, medications, symtoms

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the drug Strattera for use in the maintenance of ADHD in children and adolescents. It is the first non-stimulant approved by the FDA for treatment of ADHD.

"Strattera provides uninterrupted relief from ADHD symptoms throughout the day into the evening. This is important since the symptoms of ADHD go beyond the work and school day."

The approval comes after an 18-month study showed dramatically superior results in the maintenance of ADHD symptoms for children and adolescents between the ages of six and 15-years. Source: News-Medical.net.

Labels: medications, non-stimulant, treatment

Last week, the American Heart Association released a statement recommending that children with ADHD be given a heart test before they're prescribed any stimulant medication like Ritalin. The statement came after the AHA concluded a study which found that stimulant medication can increase cardiac risks in children with existing conditions.

"Pediatric cardiologist Darshak Sanghavi from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester said he doesn't fully agree with the AHA recommendation... '(With the AHA announcement) people have brought up this worry that ADHD medications such as Ritalin and Adderall increase the risk of heart problems,' he said Thursday in a phone interview."

While Ritalin and Adderall won't cause heart problems, they can aggravate existing heart issues, which is why the AHA released its statement. Source: Sentinel and Enterprise

Labels: heart_test, medications, stimulants

The American Heart Association has recommended that children get their hearts tested before taking ADHD stimulant medications like Ritalin.

"Research has indicated that stimulants like Ritalin can raise the heart rate and blood pressure. While these side effects are unimportant for most children with ADHD, they can be relevant for those with a heart condition, the American Heart Association said."

The test, an electrocardiogram, is relatively inexpensive and simple, and can detect heart rhythm abnormalities that could be aggravated by some ADHD medications. Source: Reuters

What do you have planned for your ADHD child this summer? Talisman offers summer camps for children with ADHD at locations across the country.

Labels: health, heart_rate, medications

On Tuesday, researchers from New York University released the results of a study which found no link between ADHD medication and future drug use. The study followed for 17 years 176 young men who had been diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed Ritalin when they were kids (ages 6 or 7).

"Those treated with medications had neither an increased nor decreased risk for subsequent drug or alcohol abuse compared with those not given drugs for their ADHD. 'Considering that ADHD affects 5 to 10 percent of children worldwide, and addictions are worldwide problems as well, I think the fact that these drugs do not have an adverse effect in increasing those risks is very important information for families and doctors...' [Dr. Joseph] Biederman said."

The study did find an increase in later drug use among children who were prescribed medication between the ages of 8 and 12. Researchers speculate, however, that delays in treating ADHD were greater factors for these kids than the medication itself. Source: RehabPub.com.

Learn more about the Impact of ADHD Treatment on Substance Use Disorders
.

Labels: drugs, medications, substance_abuse

A study conducted through Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston has demonstrated positive results with the ADHD medication Concerta in treating symptoms in teenagers.

"Compared to placebo, those given the active treatment showed a significant reduction in investigator-rated ADHD at two weeks. The investigators rated 52 percent of the methylphenidate patients as being 'much' or 'very much' improved, compared to 31 percent of placebo patients."

Researchers studied 177 teens that were diagnosed with ADHD. They also talked with the teens' parents, many of whom confirmed improved behavior. Read more at IOL.co.za.

Labels: behavior, medications

The phrase "ADHD treatment options" typically calls to mind various medications, like Ritalin, Adderall, and others. But there are options for those who don't want to take, or don't want their kids to take, prescription pills.

"Although it is now a routine part of most ADD treatments nowadays, at the time, biofeedback was a pioneering technique. Basically, I would be set up at a laptop computer with a compact disc of my choosing inside. When my brain was acting in a certain way characteristic of concentration, the music would turn on. When my brain stopped acting that way, the music would turn off."

Treatments like biofeedback and other forms of behavioral therapy may not eliminate the need for medication, but they can help make lower doses more effective. Read more at KeepSoundHealth.com.

Boarding schools for children with ADHD can address ADHD kids behaviors in and out of the classroom. Learn more ways they can help at BoardingSchoolsInfo.com.

Labels: medications, therapy, treatment

A team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital recently concluded a study in which they investigated the relationship between ADHD medication and substance abuse. Their findings are encouraging for patients and parents alike.

"The study found no relationship between having ever received stimulant treatment and the risk of future alcohol or other substance abuse. The age at which stimulant treatment began and how long it continued also had no impact on substance abuse."

Results of the study also should relieve some of the pressure felt by physicians who worry about the long-term effects of ADHD stimulant medication. Read more at WAFB.com.

Learn more about teen drug use at DrugRehabTreatment.com.

Labels: medications, substance_abuse

A recent study by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has some pediatricians and professors calling for restraint and caution in the prescription of medication for the treatment of ADHD. The NIMH study has found that children who used psychosocial or behavioral treatment instead of medication had essentially "caught up" with those children who used medication.

"'While results of one study rarely justify drastic changes of practice, the findings underscore the complexity of ADHD, show that stimulant drugs are far from being a silver bullet and that there is much we do not yet know,' Prof [Joseph] Rey wrote in the latest Medical Journal of Australia."

He acknowledges that stimulant medication still plays a role in the treatment of ADHD, but warns that it should not be considered the only, or even the best, form of treatment. Read more at En.EpochTimes.com.

Labels: medications, therapy, treatment

There is a large variety of ADHD medications out there. For the parent of a child with ADHD, the options can seem overwhelming and confusing. FamilyDoctor.org has gathered answers to the basic questions that parents often have about ADHD prescriptions.

"Do the medicines have side effects? All medicines have side effects. Psychostimulants may cause a decreased appetite, a stomachache or a headache. The loss of appetite can cause weight loss in some people. This side effect seems to be more common in children."

Other questions addressed include "How should ADHD medicine be taken?" and "How long will this treatment last?" Read more at FamilyDoctor.org.

Labels: advice, medications, side_effects

Professor Joseph Rey from Sydney University has warned that results of recent studies show that neither doctors nor parents should rely on stimulant medication as the primary means of treating ADHD in children. His comments come in the wake of a US study that found little or no long-term difference between kids with ADHD who were treated with stimulant medication verses those who received behavioral therapy treatment.

"Prof Rey said the results of the US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) study should change attitudes to ADHD treatment. 'While results of one study rarely justify drastic changes of practice, the findings underscore the complexity of ADHD, show that stimulant drugs are far from being a silver bullet and that there is much we do not yet know,' Prof Rey wrote in the latest Medical Journal of Australia."

Prescribing rates for stimulant drugs have increased nearly ten-fold in the past ten years as ADD and ADHD have become more widely common, but a growing number of doctors and professors are beginning to question medication's long-term benefits. Read more at TheWest.com.au.

Instead of stimulants, what about removing disractions like TV and video games. Stone Mountain School, a therapeutic boarding school for boys, is set in a rustic part of North Carolina that allows boys with ADHD to concentrate on their actions, behaviors, and academics.

Labels: drugs, medications, stimulants

Weekends, vacations, and other long breaks from school can be especially challenging for parents of children with ADHD. One recommendation is to use an individualized treatment plan that includes a medication patch like Daytrana.

"Clinical studies have shown that Daytrana's novel design provides a continuous flow of medication when worn for the 9-hour recommended wear time. Alternatively, Daytrana can be applied later in the day if the child sleeps late on weekends or start activities later during the summer or holiday season, and can still be removed at the usual time."

If your child has been prescribed ADHD medication, it's helpful if the doses can be tailored to your child's activity level and schedule. Talk with your doctor about the best options for creating an individualized treatment plan. Read more at HealthNewsDigest.com.

Specialty boarding schools, like the Cedars Academy, offer programs geared specifically for children with ADHD, learning disabilities, Asperger's Syndrome, or Non-verbal learning disorders. Learn more about their boarding schools for learning disabilities at CedarsAcademy.com.

Labels: activities, medications, treatment

A study of Attention Deficit Disorder among Finnish children reinforces the idea that children outgrow some of their symptoms, but also raised some questions about the long-term effectiveness of medications as a treatment for the condition.

Dr. Susan Smalley, of the University of California/Los Angeles, used data from a longitudinal Finnish study begun in 1986. Researchers from Finland's University of Oulu and Imperial College in London collected information on 9,432 children from the time of their mothers' pregnancies until adolescence. About 457 of the children were evaluated for ADHD and other psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Smalley found that symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity decreased as the children grew older, but symptoms of inattention continued into adolescence. Only about half the adolescents diagnosed with ADHD had cognitive deficits in working memory, inhibition, etc that are commonly associated with ADHD. Those with cognitive defects did not show increased levels of inattention or hyperactivity compared to others with ADHD.

Youth in Finland rarely take medications for ADHD. Dr. Smalley found that when she compared children with ADHD in Finland who did not take drugs to those in the United States who did, she could conclude that prevalence, symptoms, psychiatric comorbidity and cognition was equivalent for both groups.

"We know medication is very effective in the short-term, but the study raises important questions concerning the efficacy of ADHD treatment," she said.

Two genes labeled DBH and DRD2 that regulate dopamine were associated with ADHD in the Finnish population of adolescents.

This study appears in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

Stone Mountain School adhd boarding schools for boys offers a quiet, rural setting that removes everyday distractions allowing boys to concentrate on positive behaviors and academics.

Labels: medications, research, treatment

At a congressional meeting Tuesday, Major League Baseball officials and government leaders gathered to discuss doping in baseball. Among the more surprising discoveries was the information that "therapeutic use exemptions" for ADD-related drugs had more than quadrupled in just one year.

"'This demands an explanation. There's something fundamentally wrong [with] them going from 28 [exemptions] to 103,' said Dr. Gary Wadler, chairman of committee that determines the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned-substances list. 'If we had this percentage increase in the general population, it would be on the evening news as a national epidemic. It's an outrageous number.'"

The Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE) clause allows players to fill prescriptions for medications that are otherwise banned, if approved by both a physician and an independent administrator. Wadler believes the 2006 ban on amphetamines is tied to the TUE increase.

Private high schools, especially boaridng schools for learning disability, can greatly help your child with social skills and academics. Find a private high school at BoardingSchoolsInfo.com.

Labels: medications, role_models, sports

Many parents of children with ADHD and other developmental disabilities are looking for treatments that require little or no medication. A program in Beverly, Massachusetts offers that kind of program.

"Goodchild's treatment is based on the theory that simple movements like crawling are critical to a child's brain development, and he believes that recreating those developmental milestones will help heal the brain. 'We can use movement to correct what's been mis-wired,' he said."

Though the method has been around for decades, there's no scientific proof that is actually works. There is however, mounting experiential evidence as parents see dramatic results in their children's behaviors after enrolling them in similar programs.

Cedars Academy schools for learning disabilities understand the needs of children with learning disorders. Their entire program is geared to help kids with ADHD, Aspergers, and NVLD.

Labels: alternative_medicine, medications, treatment

Vyvanse is a new drug intended for treatment of ADD and ADHD. As with any new drug, it can take time to get the dosage just right and learn how it affects your child.

"Always start at the lower dose: 30mg which roughly equals Adderall XR 10mg. They may be on higher doses, even 40mg of the Adderall XR, but always go low and slow. Vyvanse is more efficacious, and if you start at 50mg which roughly equals 20mg Adderall XR, it can bring an unpleasant, intense feeling. Go slowly. The dose equivalents from the studies are often too much in practical use."

Vyvanse is a prodrug which means the delivery system is meant to provide a longer duration of effectiveness. Ideally, it should eliminate the need for an additional dose later in the day.

Labels: drugs, medications

Shire plc, the pharmaceutical company which produces the ADHD medication Vyvanse, announced that it has received approval from the FDA to release the drug in three additional dosage strengths. The existing doses of 30 mg, 50 mg and 70 mg will be supplemented with 20 mg, 40 mg 60 mg doses.

"Dose titration, the process of incrementally increasing or decreasing the dose of a medication, is a widely used method in clinical practice to help achieve optimal efficacy and tolerability for each patient. The option of having dosage strengths with smaller increments allows for a more gradual titration of medication and may help the physician tailor the treatment for each individual patient."

More than 500,000 prescriptions for Vyvanse were dispensed in the first six month the drug was available. The CEO of Shire believes it's an indication that doctors view Vyvanse as an effective treatment option.

Labels: medications

Researchers from the University of Florida have released the results of a study in which they analyzed medical records of 55,000 children under the age of 18, to determine whether ADHD medication increases the risk of serious heart complications. They found that, though higher blood pressure and heart rates were somewhat common, more serious events like cardiac arrest were rare.

"Stimulant use was found to be associated with a 20% increase in visits to hospital ERs or doctors' offices for complaints such as heart palpitations and racing heartbeat, compared with nonuse. But use of the drugs did not appear to be associated with an increase in hospitalizations or deaths due to cardiac causes."

Researchers agree that the results are reassuring, but that a larger study is needed to confirm the safety of ADHD medications.

More and more teens are abusing prescription drugs, leading parents and doctors to wonder how to prevent further teen substance abuse. Visit DrugRehabTreatment.com for more information.

Labels: health, medications, side_effects

Grandma always said that fish was "brain food". Turns out, she may have actually been right. Several recent studies seem to indicate that daily doses of fish oil improve concentration in children with ADHD. A team of researchers from Australia will be conducting a study of their own, in hopes of finding the final, definitive answer.

"They want to recruit 120 children with ADHD ages seven to 12 who have learning problems and are not already taking prescribed medication or supplements of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil. Queensland University of Technology psychologist Ross Young said the study would test whether fish oil improved the children's literacy skills and also investigate the optimal dosages."

The team is currently accepting applications from children (and their parents) who would like to participate in the study, which is expected to last for one year.

Southeast Journeys offers semester length programs for children with Asperger's Syndrome, high-functioning Austin, and other learning disabilities. Learn more at TalismanCamps.com/SoutheastJourneys

Labels: diet, fish_oil, medications

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, in partnership with the American Psychiatric Association, has published the ADHD Parents Medication Guide intended to help parents navigate the sometimes confusing waters surrounding ADHD treatment.

"As a parent or guardian of a child or teenager diagnosed with ADHD, you may be aware of the debate surrounding the medication used to treat this condition. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed several research studies involving children and adolescents who were prescribed medication for ADHD and concluded that these medications are effective and that the risks associated with these medications are known and can be managed."

Some of the topics covered in the guide include "side effects & ADHD medication", "school & the child with ADHD" and even "unproven treatments".

Want to learn more about ADHD medications? Visit our ADHD Directory where you'll find lots of resources for parents of children with ADHD.

Labels: medications, resources, treatment

Ben Goldfard didn't know growing up that he had ADD. He knew that staying focused was a struggle and that his mind often jumped from one topic to another, but it wasn't until he was a husband and father that he was actually diagnosed. He offers his tongue-in-cheek opinion of the benefits of not using medication to "control" his ADD.

"With some mentoring, mind-mapping, and push-ups, I have turned my ADD into effective multi-tasking. I can't speak for everyone, because it would take too long, but for me, Ritalin would have been a chemical straight jacket. It would have closed the window of opportunity to attain above-average success..."

Though he's not suggesting that people with ADD throw away their medication, Goldfard is challenging people to view ADD and ADHD not as disabilities, but as blessings.

Labels: adult_ADHD, benefits, medications

Parents and pediatricians have the same goals; to keep children healthy, happy, and on a positive developmental path. But they sometimes have differing ideas of how to achieve those goals. As a parent, how do you get past the roadblock (or avoid it altogether) when a pediatrician's suggested treatment goes against your parental experience or instinct?

"The trick here [Dr. Delia Chiaramonte] says, is to stand firm, even when you know you're annoying the doctor. 'You have to let go of the desire to be the good patient and make everyone like you,' she says. She recommends questioning the doctor thoroughly."

Respect the pediatrician's years of study and practice, but make sure he or she respects your knowledge and experience as a parent as well. When it comes to your child's care, ask all the questions you need to, don't be afraid to questions a diagnosis if a treatment isn't working, and exercise your right to get a second (even a third and fourth) opinion.

Labels: medications, pediatricians, treatment

In September, the School Board of Portsmouth, Virginia issued a memo warning parents of the "dangers" of ADHD medication. The memo went on to say that parents who accept their children have ADHD are admitting that their children are mentally ill.

"The School Board will consider sending parents new information about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder that would be drastically different from... [the] controversial memo it issued in September."

The new memo comes in the wake of a litany of comments from national ADHD organizations calling for the School Board to address the medical facts of ADHD in children and adolescents.

Pine Ridge Academy and other alternative boarding schools can help children with special needs like ADHD. Visit PineRidgeAcademy.com to learn more.

Labels: dangers, medications, mental_health

Diagnosing ADHD isn't something that a parent or teacher can do by themselves. It takes a team of people to properly evaluate a child's behavior and form a proper diagnosis. Some of the more common characteristics of ADHD are occasionally observed in kids who don't have ADHD, so establishing a patter is important.

"One thing that I have found is that there is a huge division about whether to use medication to treat the disorder (after it has been properly diagnosed) or not. People are completely against or completely for the medication...So speaking as a parent of a hyperactive child, I believe you need to keep an open mind, do lots of research and ask LOTS of questions."

Remember that if you make a decision that doesn't seem to work for your child, you can change your decision. You're not "locked in" for life. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, remember that physical activities can help your child manage the "hyperactive" part of the disorder.

Therapeutic boarding schools, like Stone Mountain School, help boys with ADHD learn to control their behaviors as they earn school credits.

Labels: diagnosis, medications, treatment

When it comes to kids and ADHD, reports and studies abound that document increased risks for substance abuse and decreased academic potential. It's enough to make a parent feel like their kid has no chance at a "normal" life. But a study conducted over the summer shows that most ADHD children who are treated - either with medication, behavior therapy or both - improve over time.

"The roles of specific therapies and educational strategies remain unclear... For now, parents should know that treating ADHD, early and with vigor, can make a difference, says Anne Teeter Ellison, a psychologist and president of an advocacy group called Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder..."

Studies have also found that improvement comes as young brains develop and mature. So while there may be a lot of "doom and gloom" reports out there, there are also valid reasons to believe that a child with ADHD can look forward to a bright, productive future.

Residential treatment centers, like the Aspen Institute, can offer parents struggling with difficult children a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.

Labels: medications, therapy, treatment

Wal-Mart Stores announced today that it is expanding its generic drug program to include, among other things, drugs used to treat ADD/ADHD. The generic medicines will be available for $4 for a one-month supply.

"'This announcement reinforces our commitment to driving costs out of the health system and saving money for our customers so they can live better, healthier lives,' said Dr. John Agwunobi, Wal-Mart senior vice president and president for the professional services division."

The discount drugs will be offered at over 4,000 Wal-Mart, Sam's Club and Neighborhood Market stores across the nation.

Prep schools aren't just for preppy kids - they can help girls and boys from all walks of life and all kinds of needs. Find a prep school at boardingschoolsinfo.com.

Labels: health_care_costs, medications

Concerta was the first time-released formula ever marketed for the treatment of ADHD. The once-daily treatment is one of several options for treating ADHD symptoms, and has both benefits and side effects of which parents should be aware.

"The Concerta capsule has an outer coat of medication that dissolves quickly, and then two small compartments of medication inside that release gradually. The time-released system of the Concerta capsule provides up to 12-hour coverage and provides more even coverage for ADHD symptoms but there are a few drawbacks with the capsule form."

One drawback is that, because of the pill's design, it can't be cut to decrease the dosage. Also, because of the 12-hour coverage, the drug's manufacturer suggests skipping a day's dose if it isn't taken early in the morning. The 12-hour time-release also means that normal sleep patterns may still be disrupted even if the pill is taken early. As with any medication, a doctor should be consulted before a final decision is made, and prescription instructions should be carefully followed.

Labels: medications, side_effects, treatment

A new study has proven that ADHD medication has long-term academic benefits for children diagnosed with the condition. The study was conducted by a team from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and appears in the September edition of the Journal of Development & Behavioral Pediatrics.

"The Mayo team found that treatment with prescription stimulants, such as Ritalin, was associated with improved long-term academic success of children with ADHD... By age 13, those taking medication had improved reading scores compared with children with ADHD who didn’t receive the drugs, the researchers found."

The children who took medication also had better attendance and were less likely to be held back.

Labels: grades, medications, schools

In the largest study of its kind ever to be conducted, researchers will be looking into possible correlations between ADHD medication and cardiovascular risks. Supported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, researchers will study the clinical data of about 500,000 people (adults and children) who have treated ADHD with medication.

"Because medications used to treat ADHD can increase heart rate and blood pressure, there are concerns about the drugs' potential to increase cardiac risks. It is also thought these risks may be different for adults and children, but more evidence is needed about the long-term effects of using ADHD medications."

The study will be coordinated by Vanderbilt University and will analyze the effects of every drug that is currently used to treat ADHD. Completion of the study is expected to take two years.

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Labels: long_term_effects, medications, side_effects

Strattera was first introduced in 2003 as an ADHD medication. It acts, not as a stimulant, but an inhibitor that prevents the "re-uptake" or re-absorption of a chemical which is thought to aid with impulse control, organization and attention.

"Do not take Strattera with any other medications, even over-the-counter medications! You must talk with your doctor first! Talk to the Pharmacist too. Our reports indicate that there may be serious problems taking anti-depressants with Strattera. In fact, our reports indicate that there can be serious problems taking even Benadryl with Strattera."

It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for Strattera to work well. That's much slower than stimulants, which work in about 20 minutes. Clinical trials have shown Strattera to work well in reducing symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention.

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Labels: anti-depressents, medications, stimulants

In increasing numbers, people are beginning to questions the validity of ADHD diagnoses, especially in younger children. Many of these critics think the kids are simply undisciplined and the parents lazy. But a parent in Sioux Falls, South Dakota was quick to speak against these kinds of misinformed judgments.

"My girls are 11 and 10 and for 10 years it was a literal war from the time I got up in the morning until they finally fell asleep at night... They even started to hate themselves and ask me why they weren't like other kids."

After her girls were diagnosed with ADHD, they began both counseling and medication, which have gotten them back on track both at school and at home.

Learn more about learning disabilities, including diagnosis and ways to help your child at LearningDisabilitiesInfo.com.

Labels: counseling, diagnosis, medications

Vyvanse, one of the newest ADHD treatment drugs, has been on the market since July, 2007. To date, the feedback has been excellent. Dr. Charles Parker offers some tips for parents, children and/or patients considering Vyvanse to treat ADHD.

"Always start at the lower dose: 30mg which roughly equals Adderall XR 10mg. They may be on higher doses, even 40 mg of the Adderall XR, but always go low and slow. It’s more efficacious [effective], and if you start at 50mg which roughly equals 20mg Adderall XR, it can give them an unpleasant feeling."

Because Vyvanse is a slow-release medication, taking another dose later in the day shouldn't be necessary. Dr. Parker also advises that the body tolerates psych meds better if accompanied by a protein breakfast. Read more at CorePsychBlog.com.

Outdoor education programs can help children with ADHD get away from stimulants and work on correcting their behaviors. WildernessProgramsInfo.com offers more information about outdoor education programs.

Labels: medications, pediatricians, treatment

Children with attention issues can be frustrating. Psychotherapist Pamela Sorensen readily acknowledges the difficulties that parents of inattentive children face. At the same time, she urges parents to try some "home remedies" before turning to ADHD medication.

"'Every family's routine and rhythm are different,' says Sorensen. 'Some families have bath in the evening, some in the morning. What matters is that it happens in the context of a familiar rhythmic routine of family life.' Sorensen says this predictability relaxes children..."

Sorensen also suggests letting even small children make some basic decisions, like what clothes he'll wear or what he'll have for breakfast. Read more at ReadTheHook.com.

A therapeutic boarding school, like Youth Care, can help children dealing with ADD/ADHD. Learn about Youth Care's programs for children with ADHD.

Labels: alternative_medicine, inattention, medications

It's time for kids to get ready to go back to school. Among the ads for school supplies and clothing will be ads for something else: ADHD medication. Though the United Nations passed a treaty banning direct-to-consumer marketing of ADHD drugs, the ads still appear in American magazines, newspapers, and on television.

"Children in the United States are 10 times more likely to take a stimulant medication for ADHD than are kids in Europe. In fairness, children in Europe are also somewhat less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD because of a stricter set of criteria. But that doesn't nearly account for the difference in prescription rates. The United States, the only nation to violate the U.N. treaty, consumes about 85 percent of the stimulants manufactured for ADHD."

Doctors, in increasing numbers, are telling stories of parents who have 'diagnosed' their children and already have a specific ADHD drug in mind. Many in the medical community are calling for the FDA and Justice Department to force compliance with the U.N. treaty in the United States - stating that these medications are potentially harmful if misused. Read more at Courant.com.

Labels: diagnosis, medications, pediatricians

Until recently, freshman Sophie Bell was taking medication to treat her ADHD symptoms. But she didn't like how "shaky" the medication made her feel, so she and her mom started looking for alternatives. They found Dr. Martin Rosen, a chiropractor.

"He believes ADHD can start with a misalignment in the spine which affects the body's balance and ultimately how the brain functions."

Indeed, after a series of treatments, both Sophie and her mom noticed a difference in her ability to focus. She eventually stopped taking her medication altogether. Read more online.

Find more alternative treatments for ADHD in our ADHD Directory.

Labels: alternative_medicine, medications, treatment

The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities issued a statement on Sunday stating that medication shouldn't be the first course of action for children or adolescents who are diagnosed with ADHD.

"While pharmacological treatments are found to treat ADHD successfully, research shows that interventions such as family and/or group therapy and other behavioral supports should be used prior to pharmacological treatments. In addition, research findings have shown medications to be beneficial when used in combination with behavioral treatment for children and adolescents that do not respond to behavioral strategies alone."

The statement goes on to suggest that parents and children weigh the risks and benefits of medication carefully and that if a decision is made to try medication the patient should start with the lowest dose possible. Read more at Tennessean.com.

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Labels: behavior, medications, treatment

Ridha Joober, MD, and Reut Gruber, PHD, both of Douglas Mental Health University Institute at McGill University in Montreal, Canada have completed a first-of-its-kind study on sleep patterns of children with ADHD. They found that the medication methylphenidate helps improve the quality of sleep in ADHD-diagnosed children with poor sleep patterns.

''Children with low sleep efficiency might improve performance following the administration of MPH as it increases their arousal level to a moderate level, which is presumed to facilitate vigilance performance,' wrote Joober and Gruber."

The study focused on 37 children between six and 12 years old, who were divided into two groups based on their sleep patterns. Joober and Gruber believe more testing is in order, but that the initial results are promising. Sleep problems are common in children diagnosed with ADHD. Read more at Huliq.com.

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Labels: medications, sleep, stimulants

Some families are choosing to find their own ways of treating ADHD in their children, deciding - in some cases - to leave doctors out of the process completely. It's not a decision the families come to lightly, and they advise other parents considering similar decisions to make them carefully as well.

"Samuel had been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism, when he was three. He was officially diagnosed with ADHD two years ago. The family went through six months of behavior training in the RIP [Regional Intervention Program], learning to handle tantrums, teach Samuel to share and calm himself down."

Though Samuel's parents eventually felt he needed medication to get his ADHD fully under control, other parents chose herbal therapies like BrightSpark. Read more at Tennessean.com.

Labels: diagnosis, medications, treatment

Some specialists in pediatric and/or holistic medicine are concerned about the excessive publicity often given to drugs that treat things like ADHD, while other forms of treatment - like behavioral therapy - go almost unnoticed. Pharmaceutical companies sponsor awards, dinners and major lectures. Medical journals are filled with their ads.

"The net result is that even though in its policy statement the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry emphasizes its admonition that 'psychiatric medication should not be used alone,' more often than not, it is. For example, a study of 223 children ages 3 and younger diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder found more than half were prescribed psychotropic medication, yet fewer than a third were receiving psychological services."

William Pelham, Jr., distinguished professor of psychology, pediatrics and psychiatry at the University of New York at Buffalo conducted a study which found that when medication was used in conjunction with behavioral therapy, drug doses could be reduced by as much as 67 percent while still achieving the same results. Read more at ScienceDaily.com.

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Labels: medications, therapy, treatment

A study that began in 1999 has revealed slower growth and weight gain in children who take Ritalin. On average, kids with ADHD who took Ritalin to manage the condition's effects weight 4.4 pounds less, and were an inch shorter than kids who didn’t take the medication.

"Whether these kids eventually grow to normal size remains a question. Kids entered the study in 1999 at ages 7 to 9. The current report is a snapshot taken three years later. The 10-year results - when kids are at their adult height - won't be in for two more years."

The findings appear to end years of debate over short- and long-term physical effects of Ritalin. Read more at CBSNews.com.

Ritalin, a medication for ADD, is becoming a popular drug that teens are abusing. Teen drug abuse is a serious issue, even when it comes to prescription drugs. Learn about the rise of prescription drug abuse in teens at Teen-Help-Directory.com.

Labels: development, long_term_effects, medications

The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recently published four studies that reviewed the long-term benefits of ADHD treatments. In the initial studies, children were given one of three treatments; medication, medication and behavioral therapy, or behavioral therapy only.

"Ratings from both family members and teachers favored the combination treatment, and careful medication management was more successful than medication provided through usual community care sources."

Another study showed that children differed in their response to ADHD medication, with some showing improvement even into the third year of follow-up and others showing little response to medication at all. Read more at HealthDay.com.

Labels: benefits, medications, treatment

A research team at a University in Adelaide, Australia recently studied the brain activity of children with ADHD to try and determine why they have such difficulty remembering. While playing a card game called "Snap" patients with ADHD, who were off their medication, had to recognize when two of the same cards appeared in a row.

"...but we found that children diagnosed with ADHD had incredible difficulty detecting doubles at all, news.com.au quoted lead researcher, PhD student Hannah Keage, as saying. 'They just weren't able to select that information about the cards properly and hold it online in their head,' she added."

Other tests showed that children were unable to recognize distractions as distractions. Read more at News.sawf.org.

Some of the best boarding schools for kids with ADHD can be found at the BoardingSchoolsInfo.com directory. Check out the list of Special Needs Boarding Schools to find the best school for your child.

Labels: brain_activity, distractions, medications

A team of scientists from New York's Weill Cornell Medical College recently conducted a study to determine if Ritalin has any long-term effects on the brain. They used rats, which were divided into two groups, one was injected with Ritalin doses for a month, and the other received no treatment.

"The scientists noticed some subtle, short-term structural changes in the rats' brains immediately after Ritalin treatment ended. But those differences weren’t major, and they faded within three months."

The results of the study were published in The Journal of Neuroscience, and though they were positive, researches don't yet know if the findings apply to people. Read more at MedicineNet.com.

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Labels: brain_chemistry, long_term_effects, medications