Verice, both Gordon and I were teachers and both worked with children who were or should have been on Ritalin. At that time, Dr. Lendon Smith, Portland, Ore., pediatrician was active as one of their daughters was hyper-active.I can't believe there aren't in-depth studies of this drugavailable. The child in my class leda normal life with this drug. Without it, one quakes to think. Can this be 20 years ago? I guess. This super-charged child has no relation to Gordon's problems. It startled me to even think of it. however, I am no pharmacist and we all know the oddities of medications. Regarding, your child.Dr. Smith's daughter, asa young adult, managed her own medications. She was then in College. Your friendly librarian would research this for you.