The FDA recently announced that new patient guides including serious warnings
about possible side effects will be required for all ADHD medications.
These side affects include heart problems, stroke, and psychiatric problems.
In some cases the medications even contribute to sudden death.
While the FDA has required warnings on the labels of these medications, the
new patient guides are designed to provide the consumer with more information
about possible problems associated with the ADHD medications. The requirement
comes in the wake of criticism that the FDA hasn’t brought enough attention
to the heart and psychiatric problems caused by many ADHD medications.
It is estimated that 4 million American children and adults take some form
of ADHD medication. These guides, which are pamphlets given to patients when
the drug is prescribed, will inform those taking the drugs about possible risks
as well as preventative measures they should take before and during their treatment
with the drugs.
Patients taking ADHD medications such as Adderall, Strattera, Ritalin, Dexedrine,
and Concerta have experienced cardiovascular problems including heart attack
and stroke. Psychiatric problems encountered while taking the drugs include
hallucinations, hearing voices, paranoia, and mania. Patients should be given
a thorough physical and psychiatric exam before taking the medication, and
regular check-ups with the doctor should be performed to check for any possible
cardiovascular or psychiatric problems.
The FDA does not want to discourage anyone from taking ADHD medication. Instead,
it is hoped that these guides will encourage patients and doctors to be aware
of risks and take measures to ensure the medications’ safe usage.
© Copyright 2007 Insight Journal Online Magazine.
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