Attention disorder drug to be probed

A drug used by up to 15,000 children to control attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder is to be investigated after trials linked it
with increased risk of suicidal behaviour.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency will look
into the health risks and benefits of Strattera, a
prescription-only medicine.

Strattera was introduced in July last year and is not as widely
used to control ADHD as Ritalin, although the MHRA estimates that
15,000 patients have been treated with it.

Health care professionals have been advised that patients should be
monitored for signs of depression, suicidal thoughts or
behaviour.

Dr June Raine, director of medicines post-licensing at the MHRA,
said: “Children who are doing well on this medication should
continue their treatment. Those who experience any unusual symptoms
should speak to their doctor.”