With child obesity on the rise, pediatricians have been prescribing an amphetamine-type drug to speed weight loss in children. Should we be giving drugs to children to combat childhood obesity?
At least one pediatrician in Illinois is doing just that, and some suspect the practice may be more widespread than we think. Adderall, a popular drug used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is an amphetamine. Its main side effect is appetite suppression; therefore, when given to children and teens that don't have the neurological disorder, it can cut their appetite and lead to weight loss. However, are the risks of the medication really worth the benefit, especially when the drug hasn't even been tested for the purpose of losing weight?
I think this is a very dangerous trend. It does not teach children how to make healthy food choices, which is really what will benefit them in the long run. Doctors should be more concerned about planning a food and exercise regime than prescribing medication. If you were a parent, what would you do?
2 comments:
I have to agree with you, these drugs should not be giving to young children. This is because children should learn how to be healthy themselves. They should learn how to eat right, exercise, and make healthy decision. Furthermore, I believe that there are several other methods that can be used to combat childhood obesity besides the prescription of drugs and i feel that a doctor should consider the many effects that giving these children will have on their lives in the future. I think that these pills should only be used as a last result and in severe cases where no other weight loss program works.
I agree as well. This is a dangerous trend, especially if the drug has not been tested for the purpose of weight loss. There may be other dangerous side effects that we are not yet aware of.
As stated in the post, this does not teach children to make healthy food choices. A commitment to a healthier lifestyle should be made first, before the prescription of a drug for weight loss. If this is the last resort, that is when using weight loss drugs may be necessary-- but the drugs should be tested and proved effective and safe before they are given to children.
Post a Comment