<p>1of42 is absolutely correct that stimulant medications used to tread ADHD are potentially addictive. This is a major reason why they are legally classified as a controlled substance, and why a parent must shlep over to the pediatrician’s office every month to get the prescription (refills are not allowed).</p>
<p>Chemically, stimulants are cousins to meth. They can potentially change the way neurotransmitters function – permanently. However, in the measured and controlled dosages monitored by physicians, there isn’t a cause for concern about permanent brain damage. Taking too much of a stimulant medication could certainly be extremely dangerous. Of course, that is true of many medications prescribed by physicians.</p>
<p>Any potential side effects of stimulant medications are best described by a physician. Overall, the benefit to people who suffer from ADHD far outweighs the potential risks. Most risks, such as growth delay and vascular damage, can be lessoned by physician monitoring. Every medication has potential side effects. </p>
<p>We also know that NOT treating ADHD can have serious social, psychological, emotional, academic, and even legal consequences. I’m all for trying natural cures – the Feingold diet, supplements, etc. However, if those things do not work, and the child is suffering, to deny them medication seems wrong. People with ADHD do best, BTW, with both medication and counseling, in order to learn an effective lifestyle approach.</p>
<p>This class of medications, and Ritalin in particular, is arguably the most researched in history. The medical profession has decades-long experience using this drug to treat the disability. There isn’t as much experience with newer medications such as Adderall, but in general this class of medications is very safe when prescribed and monitored by a physician.</p>
<p>It is true that stimulant drugs are sometimes used recreationally, although there are much better highs out there. It is also correct that these medications are being used as a study aid by students who do not have ADHD. I have no idea how much this happens, but I have heard of it many times. In any case, the population most susceptible to extreme abuse is those who suffer from the disease of addiction. Lacking “brakes”, they are most inclined to take a dangerous amount. Since many people do not discover that they have an addictive brain until they get to college or grad school, the presence of stimulant medications being used as a study aid could be particularly hazardous for them.</p>