ADDing up the problems The Centers for Disease Control recently issued a report that finally brings attention to the dangers associated with medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. What it found is shocking. From 1999 to 2003, 25 deaths were linked to the drugs -- 19 of which were children. That might seem like a small number, but even if it were "only" one, would it be worth it? You don't have to be that child's parent to know the answer. The common side effects of these drugs aren't minor either. They have also been linked to chest pain, stroke, high blood pressure, and elevated heart rate. In fact, 54 cases of serious heart problems, heart attacks, and strokes were reported to the Food and Drug Administration from 1999 to 2003. Each year, these and other problems linked to the drugs are thought to send nearly 3,100 people to emergency rooms across the country. Other common complaints include abdominal pain, rashes, and spasms and pain or weakness in the muscles. Concerns over the effects of these drugs have led to calls for black box warnings to be put on packaging inserts for Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall, and other such medications. But although the FDA's drug safety advisory panel last February voted in favor of adding such a warning, a month later an alternate panel backed away from the recommendation. Instead, it proposed putting the data in a new "highlights" section the agency plans to add to the top of drug inserts. We'll see how much good that does. But in the meantime, the good news is there are alternatives to these medications that are just as effective -- and a whole lot safer. They involve dietary changes and supplementation with specific nutrients. For more information on the natural alternatives to drug treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, check out this month's issue of Dr. Wright's Nutrition & Healing newsletter.
Deeply concerned
Q: I've had deep vein thrombosis for about two years, and I would appreciate any suggestions on how to deal with the problem. JVW: The best treatments for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are ones that strengthen the veins and increase blood circulation. Two excellent herbs for strengthening your veins are horse chestnut extract and butcher's broom. There are also a number of herbs that thin the blood and increase your blood flow, including Ginkgo biloba, garlic, and ginger. One study showed that a single 600-mg-dose of dried garlic powder can significantly thin the blood and reduce the tendency for clotting. Another study out of Japan claims that two substances in lemon juice -- citric acid and lemon polyphenol -- can lower the chance of blood clotting and help regulate blood circulation. Since DVT is most problematic during long flights, the researchers recommended that travelers drink lemon juice at least once every five hours to cut the risk of developing a clot. Other steps to avoiding DVT -- whether you're in the air or on the ground -- include exercising regularly and drinking plenty of water.
What is...deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that typically occurs in the large veins of the legs. The clot blocks the flow of blood back to the heart and causes pain, swelling, and tenderness. A number of factors can increase your risk of developing the condition, including long periods of inactivity, or risk factors such as a recent history of cancer, a past history of DVT, circulatory problems, or blood clotting disorders. DVT usually resolves on its own when the blood clot dissolves and normal circulation is restored. However, the condition can be extremely dangerous if a portion of the clot breaks off and lodges in the lungs, heart, or other organ. Sources: Source: "Study: ADHD Drugs Send Thousands to ERs," The Associated Press, 5/24/05 | 
