Landmark ADHD Drug Study is now being Questioned
A landmark study once recommending drugs over safer, behavioral alternatives
is now being questioned and officially re-evaluated.... "....Looking back, some study researchers say several factors in the study’s design and presentation to the public disguised the successful performance of psychosocial therapy, which has allowed many doctors, drug companies and schools to discourage its use." " My belief based on the science is that symptom reduction is a good thing, but adding skill-building is a better thing,” ...said Stephen Hinshaw, a psychologist at University of California, Berkeley, and one study researcher: "If you don’t provide skills-based training, you’re doing the kid a disservice". "I wish we had had a fairer test.” Study co-author Dr. Lily Hechtman of McGill University in Montreal, added: “...I hope it didn’t do irreparable damage. The people who pay the price in the end are the kids. That’s the biggest tragedy in all of this.” "A.D.H.D. Experts Re-evaluate Study's Zeal for Drugs" Alan Schwartz, published December 29, 2013 http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/30/health/adhd-experts-re-evaluate-studys-zeal-for-drugs.html "This is what amphetamine-loving child psychiatrists don't appear to know... behavioral management was just as effective as amphetamines": Long-term randomized clinical trial (RCT) of amphetamines in childhood, 579 children age 7-10 joined a 14 month RCT, with later follow up of a number of years. Nassir Ghaemi, M.D., M.P.H., February 2013 About Nassir Ghaemi, M.D., M.P.H.: http://www.psychologytoday.com/authors/dr-nassir-ghaemi http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/mood-swings/200807/amphetamines-without-tears An incorrect assumption today by many concerned parents: "Any improved performance with drugs does not confirm a child has ADD or even has any real focusing issues.... most people actually do perform better with stimulants, hence today's widespread drug abuse." "Tragically, such coping drugs may prevent a young brain from developing its own, natural resources.....children may learn to focus well in school only when drugged". |