Over-prescribed med ups heart risk for children
It seems like every child who has difficulty paying attention or sitting still is now being slapped with an ADHD diagnosis and a fat bottle of pills.
But before docs get any more kids started on the Big Pharma bandwagon, heart experts are asking that they take a deep breath—and first give their young patients an EKG.
Frankly, doctors should be taking a deep breath—and their sweet time—before putting anyone on a prescription. But for our most vulnerable and youngest citizens, who just happen to be your children and grandchildren, there should be a great deal of due diligence performed before their health is risked.
If a structural heart defect exists that hasn't yet been diagnosed, a drug like Ritalin can stimulate a child's blood pressure and heart rate, leading to drastic consequences.
The heart folks recommend that a full family history be taken along with an EKG as a precautionary measure before even thinking about placing a child on an ADHD drug. These drugs had already raised concerns relating to heart risks for children with congenital heart defects, which finally led to a "black box" warning being added to the amphetamine-based drugs such as Adderall. This occurred after reports of 25 deaths—19 of which were children.
If you have a child or grandchild who has been given any of these drugs, don't assume that all is well just because nothing has happened. They should still get an EKG—this test can literally save lives. Voice your concerns: Don't be afraid to ask the doctor any and all questions you may have.
