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ADDvisor Volume 5 2003 Index
Number 11 June 2, 2003
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ADHD Meds Do Not Lead to Future Drug Abuse
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In a recent article in Medscape by Sid Kirscheimer and often
debated but clearly concluded issue was revisited. A study
published in the January issue of Pediatrics is now the 11th
one to find no evidence that children treated with ADHD
medications are more likely to smoke, drink, or taking illicit
drugs as teenagers or adults.
Even though this issue has long been put to rest by clinical
research it continues to resurface, partially as a result of
a campaign by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights,
an affiliate of the Church of Scientology. The recent
congressional subcommittee investigated these allegations and
found them to be without merit based on the substantial
research that's been done on this topic.
The most recent study tract 147 clinic referred hyperactive
children for more than 13 years. They measure their tendency
to use tobacco, alcohol and drugs such as marijuana and
cocaine in adolescence and early adulthood and compare their
findings with another group not diagnosed with ADHD. This
study found that there was no relationship at all between
the use of stimulant medication, the length of use of
stimulant medication, and substance abuse.
Another report published in the same issue of Pediatrics
suggests that stimulant therapy in childhood may actually
lead to a lower risk of later drug and alcohol use.
If any readers have personal experience either supporting
or not supporting the research information please feel free
to write us and explain your situation. Since this is a
topic of concern for most parents with adolescent children
your approach and solutions to problems in this area are
most welcome. Please understand we will be sharing your
information with our readers anonymously.
CONTACT INFORMATION
_____________________________
Alan R. Graham, Ph.D.
Bill Benninger, Ph.D.
ADDvisor.com, Ltd.
1-866-ADDvisor
Email: Alan@ADDvisor.com
Bill@ADDvisor.com
Web: www.ADDvisor.com
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