Ritalin puts some at risk, group says
Ritalin puts some at risk, group says
Published: April 22, 2008
NEW YORK — Children should be screened for heart problems with an electrocardiogram before getting drugs like Ritalin to treat hyperactivity and attention-deficit disorder, the American Heart Association recommended Monday.
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Screening may evolve
New research suggests a test for the human papilloma virus that causes cervical cancer may replace the old-fashioned Pap one day as that cancer's primary screening tool. For now, a trend is the Pap-plus — both a Pap and an HPV test — to improve screening accuracy. An extra twist: The HPV test also may prove especially useful in poor countries, where cervical cancer still strikes hundreds of thousands of women who have no access to repeat Paps. Cervical cancer is expected to strike just over 11,000 U.S. women this year.
Drug maker questioned
The Chinese manufacturer of a heparin ingredient does not have adequate systems for ensuring the raw materials it uses are safe and that any impurities are removed, the Food and Drug Administration said Monday. Until it complies, the agency will recommend disapproval of any new applications listing the company as the manufacturer of any active pharmaceutical ingredient.
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What are the drugs?
About 2.5 million American children and 1.5 million adults take medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, according to government estimates. Stimulant drugs like Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta, help patients children with ADHD to stay focused.
Related Topics:
Science and Technology, Technology, Health and Fitness, Medicine, Medical Specializations, Mental Health, Cardiology, Medical Technology, Attention Deficit Disorders


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