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History of Ritalin

The history of Ritalin dates back 40-60 years ago when chemists created the drug using natural stimulants including caffeine and ephedrine. Ritalin was tested on lab rats and the results showed the rats were more focused, calm, and manageable. The short-term effects of the drug pushed the chemists to keep experimenting and derived the long lasting stimulant Ritalin (methylphenidate), which was first introduced as a treatment for hyperactivity in 1950.

After the National Institute of Mental Health officially recognized Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in 1980, the sales of Ritalin, manufactured by Novartis AG, took off. Since then, Ritalin has become one of the most commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of ADHD.

There has been a history of Ritalin controversy surrounding the drug and other ADHD medications, but recent reports by the FDA show the risks may be more serious. Since the February 2006 announcement of 51 U.S. deaths that may be linked to ADHD medications, regulators are monitoring for heart attacks, high blood pressure, strokes, sudden death, and other cardiovascular problems .

The FDA stated there is insufficient evidence connecting the fatalities with the use of Ritalin and similar drugs, but they will continue to study the available evidence to evaluate the history of Ritalin and other ADHD drugs.

There is heightened concern over this popular and arguably over-prescribed drug, which poses serious Ritalin side effects to millions of children and adults. Between 1999 and 2003, 16 deaths were reported in patients taking Ritalin or similar medications. Even more deaths have been recorded, but were either cases outside the U.S. or occurred after the review period. It is important to speak with a professional health care provider before starting or terminating the use of Ritalin or similar drugs.

In addition to the serious risks, there are also mild side effects with the use of Ritalin. A history of Ritalin side effects may include, insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability and/or depression, anxiety, stomachaches, headaches, dry mouth, blurry vision, nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.

There is a history of Ritalin lawsuits filed in the late 1980s and early 1990s against Novartis, which coincided with the campaign against ADHD medication for children. Most of the suits involved allegedly unfavorable Ritalin side effects. In one case, a mother of a child with ADHD filed a lawsuit against an Atlanta area school district, physicians, and the American Psychiatric Association (APA). She claimed her son had become violent and suicidal after taking Ritalin at the insistence of the school district.

The history of Ritalin lawsuits continued in 2000, when more suits were filed against Novartis for fraud and over-promotion of ADHD and Ritalin. It was alleged that Novartis was working with the APA and CHADD, a group that receives money from the pharmaceutical industry.

If you or a loved one has suffered from serious Ritalin side effects, please contact us to speak with a qualified and experienced attorney who will evaluate your case free of charge . Our attorneys have a wealth of experience handling similar cases and are prepared to protect your legal interests. You may be eligible to seek compensation for pain and suffering, medical bills, and more.

More Ritalin Resources

MedLine Plus Drug Information - Guide to prescription and over-the-counter medications provided by the United States Pharmacopeia.

National Institute on Drug Abuse - Health effects and addiction information on Methylphenidate or Ritalin.

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