Over The Counter & Prescription Drugs / Question
Published: July 14, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have ADD and been taking Ritalin and also a form of speed for about 6 years. I am not growing very tall and I wonder if the medication I am taking might be stunting my growth?
Signed: Ritalin Stunting My Growth?
Dear Ritalin Stunting My Growth?,
Taking Ritalin (methylphenidate) and a "form of speed" (amphetamine) can affect your appetite and so could possibly affect your growth. Another issue that you face is that you are mixing two drugs together which could cause you to overdose. FX is concerned about your use of "speed" and is assuming that your doctor is not aware of this.
TeenHealthFX recommends that you talk to your prescribing doctor about what you have been doing right away. Let your doctor know that you are concerned about your height and that you want to be evaluated. Also let your doctor know that you need help in quitting the non-prescribed speed. Your doctor can help you talk to your parents about what has been going on so that they can help you, too.
Treatment is usually necessary for people who have been using amphetamines. You can find a treatment center by calling 888.247.1400 to reach the ACCESS Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health if you live in northern New Jersey. If you live outside of this area, log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for referrals in your area.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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