Three of every 10 children in the United States are being given a drug called Ritalin.  Ritalin is used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, (ADHD).  ADD and ADHD are brain problems.  A person with ADD or ADHD has trouble paying attention to things.  This makes it difficult for a child to learn in school.  The child may act up and not behave well. 

Some doctors think that ADD and ADHD are being diagnosed too often.  Other problems can also keep a child from learning and cause behavior problems.  The child may be ill with lead poisoning or an ear infection.  The child may have mental problems like depression.  Or the child may have social problems. 

Some doctors give children Ritalin without doing a full examination.  A psychologist, as well as a doctor, should see the child.  The doctor should also talk to the child’s teacher about the problems in school. 

Parents who use Medicaid or other public assistance health programs may have problems getting the doctor to do the full exam.  They should insist that all the tests be done before the child gets Ritalin. 

Many children are being given Ritalin to treat ADD and ADHD.  But before a drug is given, parents should be sure the child is tested.