FDA Can’t Afford To Study ADHD Medication Safety
In February 2006, an FDA committee suggested very strong safety warnings on ADHD medication.
After extensive review, the warnings were increased, but not to the level of a ‘black box’, which is the strongest warning possible.
The decision was made to study the ADHD medications further, to clearly establish the risks for side effects like heart attacks and strokes from the stimulant medicines.
It was reported today that the FDA does not have sufficient funding to study the ADHD medications. They may have to stop this study midstream.
It is reported that the FDA has a budget of $1.6 million to fund safety research of medications already on the market. It is estimated by outside experts that the budget that is needed is in the range of $20 million to $100 million annually.
This budget compares to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the US of $28.6 Billion. The NIH funds critically important research to further our understanding of major illnesses.
That’s right: 28.6 Billion to 1.6 Million. Couldn’t the budgets be adjusted to allow for proper safety monitoring of medications? Isn’t that a critically important health issue?
As the number of medications available increases, and as the ‘baby boom’ ages (and may take more medication), shouldn’t this be a priority?
As an advocate for ADHD, I feel that it is crucial to have the proper studies done to establish the safety of these medicines. As a Canadian Doctor, I do not pay taxes into the American system which funds this research. However, when I buy or prescribed medicines manufactured in the US, I do support the overall ’system’.
If you are an American, please consider contacting your member of congress to encourage the proper research funding be in place to ensure the safety of everyone who takes ADHD medication (or any medication for any medical condition the requires safety monitoring!).
You can find your member of congress quickly and easily here.
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Written by Dr. Kenny Handelman - The ADHD Doctor
To find get a FREE special report on ADD/ADHD Medication, visit: Medication Mastery
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October 17th, 2006 at 1:20 pm
Hi Dr. Handleman,
You have mentioned (in relation to Drug studies) behavioural treatments for ADHD. How can I go about accessing such a program. My son is unable to function in school without Ritalin, but it kills his appetite and he his behaviour/personality becomes very flat and “zombie”-like. We often talk about developing his ability to control his impulses, and using his strengths to help minimize the effect of his weaknesses, but I really don’t know how to go about helping him. Can I get help through CMHC?. Is behavioural therapy available through some other organization? Is there a training program out there for parents? I am in Wellington County, but would be willing to travel for a program either for myself or my son.
Thank you in advance,
Erica French.
October 17th, 2006 at 11:53 pm
Hi Ms. French,
Thank you for sharing your son’s experiences.
A few thoughts to help you consider the options with your doctor:
1) Is the ritalin the right medicine for him? If he is very flat and zombie like - he may do better with a related medicine - like Dexedrine. Alternatively, Strattera - if you have the ability to pay or insurance. Of course, within the stimulants, there are other options like Concerta, Adderall and Biphentin.
2) For behavioral treatments - You need to ask your doctor about where there are ADHD treatments in the community. If you are referring to the Community Mental Health Clinic in Guelph, Ontario, then that may in fact be the location to get those services. Although there are often long waiting lists, every community has a children’s mental health center, and you just need to access the center.
Good luck!
Dr. Kenny Handelman
November 1st, 2006 at 10:23 am
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