Written question asked by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 23 May 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 12 June 2002. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 June 2002 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what recent representations he has received regarding inappropriate use of the prescription of Ritalin for children.

Answer: Mr. Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent representations he has received regarding inappropriate use of the prescription of Ritalin for children. [60090] Jacqui Smith: We have no record of recent representations on this subject. Methylphenidate (principal brand name Ritalin) is a controlled drug under Schedule 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Act and is licensed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children aged six years or older. Treatment should be under the supervision of a specialist in childhood behavioural disorders.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 60090; 386 c1325W;386 c1326W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Children ADHD Medical treatments Prescription drugs Prescriptions Methylphenidate
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk