ADHD drug given to thousands
Nearly 2,500 prescriptions for drugs to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children were handed out across Shropshire last year, it was claimed today.
Figures obtained from the NHS Business Services Authority reveal that Shropshire Primary Care Trust gave out 2,487 prescriptions for ADHD drugs to children last year, costing more than £121,000.
The Citizens Commission on Human Rights, an international psychiatric watchdog which obtained the figures, says it highlights that more children are being labelled with ADHD.
The group claims the drugs cost the NHS in Shropshire more than £121,000 last year.
It has branded some ADHD drugs as "kiddie coke" due to similarities with illicit amphetamines. Their use has come under attack for being a form of control, rather than treating a real physical condition.
Warnings highlight how some drugs can cause hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, psychotic behaviour, violence and aggression.
Brian Daniels, CCHR spokesman, said: "While the symptoms of so-called ADHD are listed in psychiatric textbooks, a major failing is a complete lack of scientific evidence to show the cause of boisterous or disruptive behaviour.
"Children do experience problems and upsets in life that may result in mental troubles. But to represent that these troubles are caused by chemical imbalances or incurable brain diseases that can only be alleviated with dangerous drugs is dishonest, harmful and often deadly.
"They mask the real cause of problems and debilitate the individual, so denying him or her the opportunity for real recovery."
Shropshire Primary Care Trust was considering its response.
By Tom Warren
