Ask Dr Chansky

[Guest guest]

I have a question for you! Our 6 yr old son has OCD and ADHD and a general

anxiety disorder. My husband and I are very upset by an article that we read

in our newspaper a few weeks ago. The article is by Talan of Newsday.

The article is about a new med that they are testing for ADHD called

atomoxetine. It is the first non-stimulant medication for ADHD. It is

exciting news!

The part of the article that made us upset was the following:

“ A major side effect of the new drug is decreased appetite, also a problem

with Ritalin and other methylphenidate drugs. But the other side effects

associated with the older drugs --- tics, or movement disorders, anxiety

disorders and OCD symptoms, haven’t shown up. “

I guess we did not know that Tom’s meds for his ADHD could be causing his

OCD and anxiety! At least it has never been put exactly that way! Tom

started out with ADHD symptoms and then AFTER he was on Ritalin, he

developed OCD and the anxiety. Now the catch is that there is a family

history of anxiety and OCD in those who have not taken Ritalin. Tom’s ADHD

is severe and has to be treated. But what if the treatment is causing all of

his other problems. And of course, we do know the 50-year history of

Ritalin. Trying a new drug could have new undiscovered or even dangerous

side effects. And it may not work anyway. Going through a med change is also

very, very taxing. We will be asking Tom’s child psychiatrist about this

during our next visit. He works at Akron children's Hospital and seems to

keep very up to date on meds. What do you think! Thanks!

Amy in Ohio

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