Is overmedicating a problem in the Irish health service?

Attention deficit disorder is classified as a behaviour disorder but known to be a manifestation of childhood depression. Even so, according to reports, family and talk therapy are rarely prescribed in Ireland, the uk and elsewhere, rather the disease is treated with the central nervous stimulant, methylphenidate, sold under brands such as ritalin and concerta. This way, though hyperactivity is often a symptom, the symptoms of the underlying depression are treated.

Questions arise such as a possible avoidance of real issues, and whether we should resort to drugs as a solution, particularly for young children.

According to a report, many generic drugs and an unknown number of private company brands use free surplus lactose as a bulking agent, which is unregulated, stored in unfit conditions and/or past its sell by date. Leads to the conclusion that we may be overly dependent on medicine, ignoring other paths to wellness.