Attention Enhancing Drugs are Not Advisable for Healthy Children

In a recent position paper published by the American Academy of Neurology, researchers highlight the misuse of brain stimulating drugs, which are generally prescribed for children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Authors note these stimulants are increasingly being used by healthy children to improve their concentration and performance in school.

According to the researchers, using these drugs for healthy kids cannot be justified, as there are no large scale studies analyzing the effect of these drugs on healthy individuals. Moreover, the stimulants increase the heart rate and blood pressure.

In the statement issued, authors urge doctors to talk to the children requesting for stimulants about other alternatives and prescribe attention enhancing drugs only to the kids diagnosed with ADHD.

Source: Medindia