Content about Childhood psychiatric disorders

NEW YORK — More than one-tenth of school-age children and nearly one-fifth of high school boys in the United States have received a diagnosis for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to published reports.

The New York Times reported that the dramatic rise in the number of children diagnosed with ADHD over the last decade could lead to concern of over-diagnosis of the condition, as well as overuse of medications to treat it. The Times based its report on an analysis of raw data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

NEW YORK — The National Advertising Division on Tuesday recommended that Nature’s Answer discontinue a wide range of Internet advertising claims for “Bio-Strath,” including claims that the supplement benefits children with ADD/ADHD, pregnant women, people recovering from cancer treatments, people with dementia and people with diabetes.

Nature's Answer agreed to comply. 

NEW YORK — A new drug for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder made by Pfizer is now available, the drug maker said.

Pfizer announced the availability of Quillivant XR (methylphenidate hydrochloride) extended-release oral suspension, calling it the first once-per-day, extended-release liquid formulation of methylphenidate. The Food and Drug Administration approved the drug in September 2012.

HAYWARD, Calif. — Two generic drug makers have settled with a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson and another company concerning a drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Impax Labs and Teva Pharmaceuticals USA had settled a patent infringement suit with Janssen Pharmaceuticals and Alza over Concerta (methylphenidate hydrochloride) extended-release tablets in the 18-mg, 27-mg, 36-mg and 54-mg strengths.

MORRISTOWN, N.J. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a generic drug for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder made by Actavis, the drug maker said Monday.

Actavis, whose parent company was recently acquired by Watson Pharmaceuticals, announced the approval of dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate monohydrate, dextroamphetamine sulfate and amphetamine sulfate extended-release capsules, also known as mixed-amphetamine salts ER capsules.

PHILADELPHIA — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a drug made by Shire for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the company said Tuesday.

Shire announced the FDA approval of Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) capsules as a maintenance treatment for adults with ADHD. The drug already was approved for use in children and was approved for treating ADHD in adults in 2008.

The company said the approval was based on a clinical trial that showed more ADHD patients controlling their symptoms with Vyvanse than with placebo.

BOSTON — Children can be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as soon as 4 years old, according to new guidelines released Sunday by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

PHILADELPHIA — The Food and Drug Administration has approved an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder drug for use in adolescents.

British drug maker Shire announced Monday the approval of Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) capsules for patients aged 13 to 17. The drug was already approved for children ages 6 years to 12 years and adults.