In a disturbing statement issued February 21, 2006, the US Food and Drug Administration mandated that all manufacturers of drugs approved for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) must notify patients of the risk of cardiovascular and severe negative psychiatric symptoms that have been associated with the drugs.

The use of stimulant medications such as Ritalin has long been controversial with compelling arguments for and against them. Children suffer harsh disciplinary actions when severe, unmedicated ADHD erupts into disruptive or dangerous behavior. Restrictive placements such as behavior disorder classrooms or alternative schools and disciplinary actions such as suspension and expulsion are all too familiar to parents of these children. In extreme cases, law enforcement can even become involved. With such severe consequences, parents often feel there is no option for them other than medicating their children.

With the FDA's announcement, parents of children with ADHD have a new and more serious concern about their children's health and well-being. Parents should:

• Talk to their pediatrician for guidance on the use of stimulant medications and how it can affect their children. They should ask about possible alternative treatments that could be safer.
• Explore structured behavioral modification programs.
• Know their rights under Section 504 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Public schools should have copies of parent rights available to parents upon request.

Additional Resources:

• Understanding Attention Deficits
• Attention Deficit Disorders (without hyperactivity)
• ADHD Controversies
• Deafness and ADHD