ADHD and Ritalin: Pathology or Overdiagnosis?
Manage episode 491346746 series 3673715
This document provides a comprehensive overview of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), examining the dichotomy between its biological basis and concerns about overdiagnosis. It begins by exploring the neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD, including genetic factors, structural brain differences, and neurotransmitter dysregulation. The text then analyzes methylphenidate (Ritalin), detailing its mechanism of action, therapeutic applications, and a range of adverse effects. Finally, it deconstructs the controversy surrounding overdiagnosis, attributing it to the subjective nature of diagnostic criteria, societal pressures, cultural disparities, and the influence of the pharmaceutical industry, concluding with recommendations for a more nuanced approach to diagnosis and treatment.
91 episodes