Ritalin and ADD/ADHD

Paper Summary:

This paper explains the history of the use of methylphenidate (Ritalin) as the drug of choice for treating individuals, usually children, who have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD). Next, the author identifies the positive results and negative side effects of this use of Ritalin. The paper outlines the ways that the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504, affect children with ADD/ADHD in terms of their evaluation, treatment, prescription of Ritalin and separation from the rest of their fellow classmates. Finally, the paper argues that people need to know about the many alternatives to treating children with ADD/ADHD so that they can make the right choice about whether to use Ritalin.

From the Paper:

"According to Mrs. Garner's observation the student is labeled ADD/ADHD and is placed under section 504, CFR chapter 104 and every thing is fine as long as he takes his medication. Now the student doesn't have to meet the same expectations in the
classroom as other students. Plus when ever the student doesn't want to do his homework or take a closed book test he doesn't have to. He can simply complain to his parents or school administrators and he will make through elementary school and middle school by taking the easy road because it afforded to him."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "ADHD Treatment Guildline." About Pediatrics. 4 Feb 2005. <http://pediatrics.about.com/cs/adhd/a/adhd_guidelines.htm?iam=momma_100_SKD&terms=%22ADHD+treatment%22
• "Assessment of oral methyphenidate explains treatment of ADHD." PsychiatryMatters.MD. 2004. 4 Feb 2005. <http://www.psychiatrymatters.md/international/news/2001/week_04/day_4/assessment_of_oral_methylphenidate_explains_treatment_of_adhd.asp?C=62526383882249768519>.
• Billings, Judith, et al. "Section 504 Manual." The Teachers Guide. 17 March 2005.<http://theteachersguide.com/504.html>
• Garner, Donna. "Should Johnny take Ritalin." BeLogical.com. 29 September 2000.4 February 2005. <http://www.belogical.com/should_johnny_take_ritalin.htm
• "Medical Acupuncture treats ADHD without drugs." American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. 16 August 2004. 4 Feb 2005. <http://www.medicalacupuncture.org/acu_info/pressrelease/adhd.html>.

More papers on Ritalin and ADD/ADHD:

• Research Paper # 4945 : "Ritalin and Children"
• Essay # 66131 : "Treatment Options for ADD"
• Essay # 31345 : "Medicating ADHD"

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