Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a common medication used by millions of American children and adults to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The safety of the drug has been called into question after the FDA released a report detailing twenty-five deaths and 54 serious cardiovascular problems as a result of Methylphenidate use.
Methylphenidates, sold to the public as Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin and Metadate, are mild stimulants used to treat ADHD. The medications have been under increased scrutiny lately for their association with cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, stroke, hypertension, palpitations and arrhythmia.
According to the popular pharmaceutical information and consulting firm IMS Health, sales of ADHD drugs surpassed $3 billion in 2004 alone.
There are many additional side effects that have been associated with Ritalin use:
- Allergic reactions
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Chest pains and high blood pressure
- Unusual behavior and confusion
- Liver damage
- Insomnia
- Nervousness/drowsiness/dizziness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that often becomes apparent in children during their earlier school years. These children have a difficult time controlling their behavior and focusing attention for extended periods of time. It is estimated that nearly 5 percent of children have ADHD, or approximately 2 million children in the United States.
Characteristics of ADHD include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Since many children may have these symptoms, the need for a thorough examination and appropriate diagnosis by a well-qualified professional is a must. Children are sometimes restless, sometimes act without thinking and sometimes daydream. When the child's hyperactivity begins to affect performance at school, social relationships, or behavior at home, ADHD may then be suspected. A parent should never assume their child has ADHD simply because they are difficult to control.
Symptoms of Attention Hyperactivity Disorder:
Hyperactivity
A hyperactive child is constantly on the go and in motion. For these children, sitting still is a difficult task without squirming, fidgeting, wiggling or talking. Children with hyperactivity feel the need to be doing something at all times.
Impulsive
An impulsive child has problems thinking before they act. They will often blurt out comments at inappropriate times and act without regard to the consequences of their actions.
Inattention
An inattentive child has difficulty focusing on one thing for a period of time. The child is easily distracted, makes careless mistakes and often skips from one activity to the next.
If you have experienced any cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, stroke, hypertension, palpitations and arrhythmia - Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin or Metadate may be to blame.
If you or a loved one have experienced any side serious effects from the ADHD drug Ritalin, please call us at 1.800.966.4999 or fill out the form to the right of the page for immediate attention to your case.
