Questions and Answers
Re: Additional Ritalin alternative My daughter is taking Ritalin for ADD. She has no hyperactivity. She is 11 yrs. old.
It is my understanding that if a person 12 or older takes Ritalin for any time under any circumstances, they will not be allowed to enlist for a Military career. Ritalin is considered a mind altering drug. At this point, my daughter shows interest in becoming an Army Veterinarian.
My question is are there any other medications used for ADD that are equally effective that are not considered mind altering drugs?
Hi Amy ... sorry to hear about your daughter.
The short answer is 'no'. Ritalin (methylphenidate) has been shown to be more effective and better tolerated than possible alternatives. Other agents used have been the tri-cyclic antidepressants - but they too are likely to be labelled 'mind altering drugs' and are bedevilled by unwanted side-effects.
Best wishes to you and your daughter.