Ritalin is a drug that is used mainly as an attempt to quiet hyperactive children who are impulsive, inattentive, easily distrated, and uable to concentrate. Up to twenty-five percent or more of students in special classes are placed in Ritalin in certain areas of the country. The use of this drug has also increased by 25 percent in the past five years.

Ritalin has many potentially dangerous side-effects including loss of appetite with subsequent decrease in normal growth. When the drug wears off children often become more active and difficult to control, suffer from intestinal complaints, drowsiness, loss of personality, rapid heartbeat, depression, mood changes, anxiety, tension or agitation, and hyperactivity.

The long-term effect of Ritalin in children is surprisingly not well established. This should be of concern because alsmost a million children are presently taking Ritalin.

Dr. Doris Rapp, M.D., did a study which indicated that about 65% of hyperactive children on Ritalin can be helped by appropriate diets and allergy extract therapy without hte use of any pills or drugs. She says, “If the kitchen faucet leaks, we don't call for a demolition crew...Ritalin is not the only or the best way to quiet some unrully, inattentive children.

Ritalin is a Class-2 controlled substance listed in the same category as cocaine, codeine, morphine, and amphetamines."

Many experts agree that parents should try natural means of helping hyperactive children before risking giving their child a drug that many do more harm than good.

SOURCE: Doris Rapp, M.D., "Does Diet Affect Hyperactivity?" Journal of Learning Disabilities 11 (1978), pp. 56.62.