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A recent study published by researchers at Harvard suggests that the protective effects of Ritalin subside as children reach early adulthood. The study challenges other recent research that supports the usefulness of Ritalin to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) well into adolescence. However, Harvard researchers were unable to find a link between Ritalin usage in childhood and substance abuse problems in later life. This is good news for parents who may be concerned about the consequences of treating children with stimulant drugs.

Brian Doyle, a clinical professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University Medical Center and fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists, was asked by U.S. News and World Report to comment on the study's findings and the current controversy over prescribing Ritalin to children. Mr. Doyle responded:

"Many parents are concerned that their children will end up abusing their ADHD medicationwhat's called a medically induced addiction. The good news is there's very little rational basis that this will happen. The vast majority of children and adults with ADHD are not using these drugs to get high but rather to feel normal. And if they're not chasing that high, they're unlikely to get addicted."

(Sources: health.usnews.com)

Posted By: jgarcia