Could This Drug Drive a Child to Suicide?

By JENNY HOPE

THOUSANDS of children taking a new hyperactivity medicine could be at risk of suicidal behaviour, drug safety chiefs have warned.

About 15,000 aged six and over have been prescribed Strattera, which was launched last summer to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

The once-daily medication helps improve concentration at school and reduces symptoms such as impulsiveness and hyperactivity.

But the drug has been linked to increased suicidal thoughts and behaviour in six out of 1,357 patients, according to data from manufacturer Lilly.

The Government’s drug safety watchdog, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, yesterday announced it was looking into the health risks of Strattera as a result.

Dr June Raine, MHRA director of medicines post-licensing, said: ‘We are advising healthcare professionals that patients should be carefully monitored for signs of depression, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour and referred for alternative treatment if necessary.

‘Children who are doing well on this medication should continue their treatment. Those who experience any unusual symptoms or are concerned, should speak to their doctor.’ The advice comes amid growing concern that doctors are giving drugs to children as an easy option.

The majority of modern antidepressants were banned from use in children two years ago because they may increase the risk of suicide in adolescents.

The most popular drug used for children with ADHD is Ritalin. But it was claimed the effects of Strattera lasted longer and gave more relief from symptoms.

Andrew Wainwright, 16, from Dronfield, near Sheffield, joined trials for Strattera in 2001.

His mother Charmaine, 48, said her son, who had suffered from restlessness, poor concentration and inappropriate outbursts, underwent a transformation.

She said: ‘He feels at peace with himself. Life is better for him.’ An increased risk of suicidal behaviour was found in a review of clinical trial data undertaken by Lilly at the request of the U.S.

regulatory authorities as part of a review into all ADHD medication.

Dr Joanna Nakieiny, medical director of Lilly, said the finding would have come to light during the company’s own checks.

She said: ‘It is important to note that there have been no suicides among patients taking the drug during any clinical trials.

‘While suicidal thinking was uncommon in patients on the medication during clinical trials, it is important for parents to be aware it can occur.’

Andrea Bilbow, chief executive of charity the National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service, said: ‘The risk is very small.

Benefits still likely outweigh any risk.

‘Parents should not be alarmed.

If a child is on Strattera and doing well, don’t stop.’ The charity says about 40,000 children in England and Wales are on medication for ADHD.

j.hope@dailymail.co.uk