From Tim Allman
Elizabeth Hatherell’s discussion of medication problems in children perpetuates a misconception about attention-deficit disorder: she writes that the drugs “numb all feelings” (16 July, p 28). In fact, people respond differently, and finding the right drug and dose with tolerable side effects takes time.
If a child is numbed or “zombied out” by medication, there is a problem with the drug selection and/or dose. This is a side effect which no one should have to endure, not a necessary condition of treatment.
Guelph, Ontario, Canada
