|
Ritalin and Prozac, as well as various combinations of similar
stimulants and antidepressants, are being prescribed together for
an increasing number of children. According to a new study, 30%
of children taking Prozac or other selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors (SSRIs), are also taking Ritalin or related drugs, presumably
for ADD/ADHD.
Additionally, 8% of children taking Ritalin or similar drugs were
also taking an SSRI. Most SSRIs are prescribed for disorders such
as depression, school phobias, bed wetting and eating disorders.
These findings are in addition to the overall trends showing a
steep increase in the number of children taking either drug type
from 1990 through 1998. As of 1998, 10% of children aged 6 to 14
years were on Ritalin or stimulants and 2% were on SSRIs. Among
children aged 1 to 5 years 1% were on Ritalin or stimulants and
0.1% were on SSRIs..
Combined annual meeting
of the Pediatric Academic Societies and the American Academy of
Pediatrics
| 