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NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was one of the first Ritalin victims, before they started handing it out like candy. I was put on it at age 5 and I took myself off at age 15. When I quit, my grades did NOT drop, my disciplinary record did NOT get worse....however, one thing did change: after years of being a weakling, pushed around, suddenly I became athletic and in short order I became strong -- strong enough to finally end the bullying. I'm totally convinced that the Ritalin hamperd my athletic development prior to that. Oh, yes, I also lagged way behind in social development, and although some of that may be genetic (the "nerd" syndrome"), part of it may very well be due to the Ritalin.

Heaven knows what the long term effects are. I'm 41 now, so perhaps I'll find out soon. Overstimulating and burning out the dopaminergenic system can't be good. Long term effects of Ritalin may resemble those of its chemical relative, methamphetamine. I fear early Parkinson's.

My son will NOT be put on Ritalin, even if I have to take him out of the country to prevent it.

I know of a young boy (now age 15) who is less than 5' tall. He's been on every drug they can find. I checked and the stunting of growth is a side effect of some of these drugs.

I think this boys life is probably permanently ruined.