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Category: ADHD

ADHD medication study prompts more debate about safety

Recently, a new study was published in the American Journal of Psychiatry associating stimulant medication with sudden, unexplained death in children and adolescents. The study made headlines in local and national media and raised the concern of parents whose children take these medications for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

The issue of prescribing medications to children and adolescents can elicit strong reactions from people. Some in the media do not help this issue by sensationalizing the various aspects of this tough decision or encouraging sound bite debate between people with strong opinions. Just last week on a major cable news network, I watched a physician and a reporter each given 30-second intervals to debate the merits of medicating children. For the children and adolescents who are considered for medication or already taking something, the decision is usually much more complex. Over the years, I have watched medications dramatically change many children for the better and I have seen children enter a challenging process of trial and error with multiple medications with little benefit. The question to medicate a child or adolescent should be a collaborative decision made between parents and the treating physician based on an appropriate assessment, medical history and sound research.

In the case of the American Journal of Psychiatry study, both the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) have pointed out some of the limitations of the study, which were acknowledged by the authors in the publication. Concerns have been raised about the study including not demonstrating a causal relationship between the medications and sudden death as well as research flaws. The FDA and AACAP have concluded not to change any of their recommended evidenced based practices in the medical treatment of ADHD. So you are aware, current FDA recommendations when considering stimulant medication includes a thorough medical history for cardiovascular disease in the child and family and a physical exam with special focus on the cardiovascular system.

When studies like this one are announced, my strongest recommendation is to talk to the physician managing the medication. Openly discuss any concerns that are raised and ask your questions. Ask the doctor more about this study or other issues you might come across in the media. There is a ton of information and misinformation on the Internet. By talking with professioanls, you can gain a more thorough understanding of the medications and help reach decisions that are truly in the best interests of your child.