Methylphenidates have the horrible side effect of a roller coaster ride of a day, but apparently that isn't the worst of it.
Concerned about the risk of sudden death or serious injury associated with Ritalin and other stimulants used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a federal advisory panel says the drugs should carry the most serious type of warning label.
The proposed "black box" warning would inform doctors, patients and parents of the uncertainty regarding the risk the drugs may pose to the cardiovascular system. The warnings could be rescinded if future studies fail to definitely establish any risk, officials said.
[ Feds Recommend Warnings on ADHD Drugs - Yahoo! News ]
Not liking the side effects of Ritalin or Metadate I switched to Strattera a while ago, and except for the fact it hits the stomach hard (bad bad acid), I'm loving it over previous treatments. This article goes on to point out:
The black box warning would not apply to Strattera, manufactured by Eli Lilly and Co. That drug is not a stimulant.