But throwing amphetamines at very young children because they seem hyperactive was a dangerous step. In America, the most widely used drug for ADHD, Ritalin, is prescribed to about four million schoolchildren, many of whom are not mentally ill but just showing normal behavioral problems. Dexamphetamine is the main drug prescribed in Australia. Prescriptions for it in Victoria have risen from about 1500 eight years ago to more than 35,000. It is mostly prescribed by paediatricians, often against the instinct of child psychiatrists.
Paediatricians argue that it is safe and scientifically proven.
American expert Peter Breggin, of the International Centre for the Study of Psychiatry, agrees. ADHD is just a list of behaviors kids have when in conflict with adults. There is no biological basis for it. He said a recent Canadian study showed that 9per cent of children on stimulants developed psychotic symptoms. It is not just stimulants.