Side-Effect: DEATH

Just did some research on ADD/ADHD drugs for another project I am working on.  What I discovered floored me....absolutely floored me.

Ritalin is the drug of choice to treat ADD/ADHD.  How many parents and teachers know that the FDA has placed a 'Black Box Warning' on the use of Ritalin?

FDA “Black Box” Warning Label

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires the following "black box" warning on all methylphenidate drugs, including Ritalin, which means that medical studies indicate Ritalin carries a significant risk of serious, or even life-threatening, adverse effects.

A 'black box warning' means the side-effect of this drug can be DEATH.  And, given the severity of the side-effect compared to benefit of use, all other resources should be tried before prescribing this drug.

Adderall is typically the second drug of choice.  Let's see what Adderal says about their side-effects:

• Adderall can specifically target the heart and respiratory system, causing temporary or long-term damage. In some cases, Adderall can cause sudden death or stroke in patients, in particular those who have a heart defect or heart problem. Adderall may also interfere with other medication for an underlying illness or medical condition. Adderall taken for long periods of time throughout childhood and adolescence may stunt growth or weight gain and lead to long term complications related to development.
  Adderall acts a central-nervous stimulant. Adderall should be used as a temporary medication to help control symptoms and help regulate brain activity. Long-term use of Adderall as a prescription medication treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder may make symptoms worse and make withdrawal symptoms unbearable. Signs of withdrawal include severe depression or dysphoria, irritability, rage, trouble sleeping and an intense craving for the medication. Symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder may be more severe during the withdrawal phase.

How many parents and school teachers know these facts?  Would parents and school teachers want our children on these drugs if they were aware of the dire consequences?

I can't imagine any parent wanting to risk the side-effect of death to calm their child down a bit.

Anyway, just wanted to pass on information I found important.

Informed consent is a form of freedom.

Let freedom ring.