Why Kids Abuse Ritalin

Shane Smith
4/5/03
Michelle Monaco
Prescription drug abuse is something that has been an issue in the United States for decades. There have been many documented cases of individuals who have become addicted to sleeping pills, painkillers, or other medications to which they were prescribed. A huge example of this occurred in the 1970s, when abuse of the drug Dexedrine became an epidemic among women when it was over prescribed as a diet aid. Performance enhancers such as Viagra and Prozac are considered to be welcome additions to people's diets in this current time when it is believed that all of life's problems can be solved by taking some sort of pill. Ritalin, a drug that is intended for use in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most controversial prescription drugs today. The difference between Ritalin and other drugs on the market is that this drug is meant to treat a disorder that is most commonly diagnosed in younger patients. ADHD, a medical condition that affects one's ability to concentrate and to maintain tasks, is considered to be the most common psychiatric disorder among school-aged children (Financial News). …