In a surprising study conducted at the University of Texas, researchers have discovered that every child they tested who was taking Ritalin (methylphenidate) developed chromosomal aberrations that have been associated with an increased risk of cancer (El-Zein, 2005).

This study was stimulated by previous animal research that showed an increase in liver tumors in mice at high doses of methylphenidate (Dunnick et al, 1995). Laboratory studies have also shown chromosomal changes in both hamster (Gallaway et al, 1987) and human cells grown in cultures (Walker et al, 1977).

The Texas researchers tested 12 children before and three months after beginning a daily Ritalin prescription for treatment of ADH (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Every child experienced an increase in genetic damage that is associated with the development of cancer after taking the drug. In the words of the authors, "In every individual examined, there was a statistically significant increase in every genotoxic endpoint analyzed… for each of the parameters tested."

The authors suggest that another drug, Adderall, is available for the treatment of ADHD, which is also an amphetamine-based drug like Ritalin. They then note that similar genetic damage has been observed in adult methamphetamine users (Li, 2003). They caution that children should be monitored for genotoxic effects of these drugs. Finally, they conclude, "the lack of research on the long-term effects of methylphenidate use in humans warrants great concern."

The HPA suggests that alternatives do exist for the treatment of attention problems in children. Parents do not need to risk the short-term or the long-term risks of Ritalin and other drugs used to treat ADD and ADHD. Holistic pediatric practitioners are well-versed in the use of nutritional supplements, lifestyle changes, homeopathic treatment, herbal approaches, cognitive therapy, and body work that will all have a significant impact on a child's ability to focus and concentrate.

For a discussion of the homeopathic treatment of attention problems and ADD see the book:

Ritalin-Free Kids: Safe and Effective Homeopathic Medicine for ADHD and Other Behavioral and Learning Problems by Judith Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman (Three Rivers Press, 2000).

References:

Dunnick JK, Hailer JR. Experimental studies on the long-term effects of methylphenidate hydrochloride. Toxicology 1995; 103:77-84.

El-Zein RA, et al. Cytogenetic effects in children treated with methylphenidate. Cancer Letters 2005 (In Press).

Gallaway SM, et al. Chromosome aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster ovary cells evaluation of 108 chemicals. Environ Molecularl Mutagen 1987; 10:1-175.

Li JH, et al. Genetic toxicity of methamphetamine in vitro and in human abusers. Environ Molecular Mutagen 2003; 42:233-242.

Walker AP, Dumars KW. Commonly used pediatric drugs sister chromatid exchanges and cell cycle. Amer J Human Genetics 1977; 29:110A.