(September 21, 2006) -- Health Canada is revising its prescribing and patient information for all ADHD drugs in Canada because of the "potential for psychiatric adverse events."

These have included rare events of agitation and hallucinations in children, spokesman Paul Duchesne said Thursday from Ottawa.

More than two million prescriptions for the drugs were written in Canada last year.

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurobiological disorder with a strong genetic component that is marked by poor attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Up to five per cent of Canadian children are believed to have the condition. Left untreated, they may have behaviour problems and trouble in school.

Duchesne said Health Canada's revised information on the drugs will also contain recommendations for what to do should kids taking ADHD drugs experience a problem.

Government officials are currently reviewing the new information and are in discussions with manufacturers of the drugs.

Updated labelling is expected to be completed by December, Duchesne said.

"The planned updates to the prescribing and patient information apply primarily to children," he said.

"Canadians taking ADHD medication should consult with their doctor if they have any questions or concerns. Also, Health Canada advises that patients should not stop taking ADHD medication without consulting with their doctor."

It's the second revision to the patient information on ADHD drugs this year. In May, there was a warning that identified heart-related risks associated with ADHD drugs.

At the time, Health Canada advised Canadians not to use Strattera, Dexedrine, Ritalin, Ritalin SR, Concerta, Attenade, Biphentin and Adderall XR if they have moderate to severe high blood pressure, heart disease or abnormalities, hardened arteries or an overactive thyroid gland.

Last updated: 09/06

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