What is Ritalin?
Ritalin, which has the generic name of methylphenidate hydrochloride, and is marketed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Ritalin is a stimulant that is prescribed for individuals who suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which is commonly referred to as ADHD or ADD. Ritalin is designed to decrease the impulsiveness and hyperactivity associated with ADHD, and increase attention. Ritalin is believed to work by affecting the levels of certain neurotransmitter chemicals in the nervous system. ADHD medications in general, including Ritalin, have been the subject of frequent debate, as some experts believe that they are over-prescribed. Some reports indicate that nearly 4 million patients take stimulants like Ritalin to treat ADHD, with 2.5 million of them being children. According to the Associated Press, IMS Health has reported that ADHD drug sales reached $3.1 billion in 2004, up from $759 million in 2000.
Ritalin and Heart Attack Warning
As reported in various media outlets, on February 9, 2006 the Drug Safety and Risk Management advisory committee urged the FDA to change the labeling of ADHD drugs and add stern warnings about the potential heart risks associated with the drugs. These heart side effects may include heart attacks, stroke, arrhythmia, and even sudden death. Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin and Metadate are some of the ADHD drugs involved in the recommendation from the advisory panel. These drugs belong to a class of ADHD drugs known as methylphenidates. The ADHD drugs Adderall and Adderall XR, which are both amphetamines, have included warnings on their labels since 2004. The advisory panel has voted 8-7 to recommend that the FDA place the strongest warning available, known as the "black box warning" for the labeling of the ADHD drugs. The black box warning is the strongest warning that the FDA has available to it, and is designed to alert both patients and physicians of the possibility of serious side effects. The boxed warning is required to be placed on the drugs' label as well as advertisements for the drugs. The ADHD drugs already have warnings concerning an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects in patients with congenital heart defects.
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ADHD Drug Deaths
The advisory panel acted after a study found an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in adults taking ADHD drugs. The ADHD drugs have been linked to approximately 54 cases of serious cardiovascular side effects and as many as 25 deaths between 1999 and 2003. Nineteen of the 25 deaths were of children. The advisory panel also voted unanimously to recommend that the FDA require medication guides be given to ADHD patients who take these drugs. These guides will explain the risks associated with the drugs to the patients and their families. The FDA normally follows the recommendations of the advisory panel, however they are not required to do so.
Questions and Consultations
If you or a family member has used the prescription ADHD drug Ritalin and noticed adverse side effects, such as cardiovascular problems including heart attack and stroke, you should contact a physician immediately. If you would like to discuss your rights, are interested in more information on Ritalin litigation, or if you have information about the cases that you would like to share with us, please click here to fill out a short evaluation form, and a member of Seeger Weiss LLP's experienced staff will call you to discuss your potential rights concerning Ritalin. Attorney consultations incur no obligation on your part and all initial consultations are free of charge and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Seeger Weiss LLP has office locations in both New York and New Jersey and its attorneys practice in courts throughout the country.
Link To Lawyer Seek's Ritalin Content:
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