Strattera, the New ADHD MedicationWritten by Jeannine Virtue
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Two of trials also tested Strattera's effectiveness against methylphenidate and stated that preliminary evidence indicates comparable effects between atomoxetine (Strattera) and methylphenidate (Ritalin). Researchers did, however, state that larger, double-blind studies are needed to better compare drugs against each other. We do expect Strattera (atomoxetine) to become one of forerunners in ADHD medication, with millions of children on this new drug in a short amount of time. Although Strattera (atomoxetine) sounds like a good choice - as ADHD medications go - Attention Deficit Disorder Help Center takes a wary position until further testing is completed and analyzed. It is important to note that this new ADHD medication is new, with tests for effectiveness lasting between six and 10 weeks and safety of this drug only tested for about one year. The short-term studies showed that Strattera (atomoxetine) increased heart rate and blood pressure in children. The long-term effects of increased heart rate and blood pressure are still unknown. Children fell below their height and weight growth curves on longer-term study and again, it is still unknown whether this will have an affect on adult height. Also of concern are side effects to sexual functioning reported in adult and how that will affect children whose sexual organs are still developing. In all fairness, this side effect likely would not surface for Ritalin, Adderall or other ADHD medications since those are for children. Since Strattera (atomoxetine) will also be marketed as an adult prescription, clinical tests were done on adults, which then unearthed sexual side effects. Our last concern deals with verbiage on Strattera (atomoxetine) web site. The following is an excerpt from www.strattera.com FAQ page; "15. Is there a cure for ADHD? Like other chronic disorders, ADHD is not curable. Some patients have a remission of disease, and may lead productive adolescent and adult lives...." Eli Lilly and Company knows better and we question why web site classified Attention Deficit Disorder as a "disease," and one that people "have a remission" from. Attention Deficit Disorder is NOT a "disease." In fact, Attention Deficit Disorder was not even a "disorder" until 1980 by American Psychiatric Association classified it as such. Furthermore, people do not "have a remission" from Attention Deficit Disorder, though many children with Attention Deficit Disorder lead productive adolescent and adult lives.
Jeannine Virtue is a freelance journalist and mother of an Attention Deficit Disorder son. Visit the Attention Deficit Disorder Help Center at www.add-adhd-help-center.com to learn about effective, drug-free alternatives to Ritalin and other ADHD medications.
| | 7 Ways to Leave Your ClutterWritten by Barbara Myers
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5. File it. Set up a "hold" file for wedding invitations and concert tickets (after you mark them in your calendar). Set up a "to file" file for all your important papers. 6. Fix it or have it repaired today. Those buttons aren't going to sew themselves. Either mend them or take them to a seamstress. The same goes for broken toys and watches. 7. Give it a home. Everything else is something that belongs in your home but you don't know what to do with it. Where DO you put extra batteries and your kids' artwork? Designate a permanent place in your home for each group of items you find in a clutter pile. Simplify by making a list of items and where they belong.
Barbara Myers is an author, speaker and professional organizer. Enjoy a FREE "50 Ways to Manage Your Time" tips booklet. Visit http://www.ineedmoretime.com
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