Adderall

Adderall is one of the top selling medications used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is distributed by Shire Pharmaceuticals and is a pharmaceutical amphetamine.

In 2004, Adderall had $759 million in sales in the United States and $10 million in sales in Canada. Approximately 15 million people have been diagnosed with ADHD, although a growing number of health experts believe “supposed” children with ADHD should not be prescribed stimulants. It is the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder in children.

Adderall has been linked to a number of fatal and non-fatal instances of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems, renal failure and hallucinations. Recent studies show a possible link between Adderall and the death of at least 81 individuals taking the medication.

In 2004, 20 deaths were reported to the FDA concerning Adderall. The report listed 20 deaths by heart attack and 12 strokes. 14 of the deaths and two of the strokes were in children. From a period between 1999 and 2003, there was a report of 81 deaths and 54 non-fatal cardiac episodes related to the drug.

Adderall is also very addictive. Taking the drug can cause physical chemical dependency, making it difficult to stop taking the drug after an extended use without experiencing adverse withdrawal symptoms. Adderall has a black box warning–the FDA’s highest warning level–in regards to its addictiveness.

Side effects may include:

• Heart Attack
• Stroke
• High Blood Pressure
• Dyskinesia
• Exacerbation of Tourette’s syndrome
• Worsening of tics
• Aggression
• Psychosis and Mania
• Hallucinations