Even on the more mundane level, these drugs are a mixed blessing. Children put on antidepressants, especially Prozac-type drugs, frequently have a manic reaction. Prozac can make children psychotic, suicidal, or violent. Other side-effects include depression, over-stimulation, agitation, insomnia, social inhibition, and increased "impulsivity." There is no consistent evidence indicating that these drugs are helpful. At present, no drugs have been FDA approved for treating depression in children. Parents are rarely informed of these facts.

By any measure, psychostimulants are potent drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration lists Ritalin as a Schedule II drug, i.e., among all legal drugs, Ritalin has the highest potential for abuse (along with morphine and barbiturates). Ritalin can also produce a wide range of side-effects--from nervousness to decreased appetite, insomnia, and headaches. There are reports that it may restrict creativity, and less common side-effects include changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Stimulants, including Ritalin, can cause manic behavior and violence. Common side-effects include depression, sadness, lethargy, and brain and cardiac abnormalities. Research shows that short-term exposure to amphetamines can produce long term and permanent neurological damage.

While it may be true that side-effects can be controlled by a responsible physician through changes in dosage and alternative drugs, few children receive careful monitoring of their medication from physicians. Even the most ardent expert on psychostimulant medication indicates it should be supplemented with behavioral, cognitive, and psychological interventions: The vast majority is treated only with Ritalin. Meanwhile, the Physicians Desk Reference section on Ritalin reports that sufficient data on safety and efficacy of long-term use of Ritalin in children are not yet available.

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