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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Ritalin for FAS
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Ritalin for FAS
by Paul__0, May 07, 1997 12:00AM
Re: Ritalin for FAS
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Posted by CCF NEURO MD on May 15, 1997 at 14:26:48:
In Reply to: Ritalin for FAS posted by Paul on May 07, 1997 at 21:14:48:
: Our family pediatrician has recommended Ritalin for our girl, age 11 who has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
The concern is that her learning problems are caused by FAS some of the symptoms are ADD-like. I have found no reports of ritalin working with FAS children.
She is still at an advanced first grade skill level with academics. Learning is difficult for her, she loses skills quickly and does not seem very interested in learning. She is very social.
Do you have any information or opinions on the use of medications for this?
Should a neurologist be making the assessment in this case?
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FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME - The most common cause of defective cerebral development in industrialized nations, affecting 1 in 700 live births in the United States. This
clinical syndromeresults from the direct toxic effects of alcohol on the developing fetus. Growth retardation, mental retardation, small brain, and heart valve lesions are common. Infants can be identified by close set eyes, small head, small nasal bridge, reduction in the vermilion border of
the upper lip, eye folds, and small teeth.
Long term neurologic effects include distractibility, inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impairement of fine motor coordination. Like your child many are diagnosed as having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Many physicians will treat the hyperactivity with Ritalin. If you would like a second opinion, I would recommend having a neurologist see your child. They would best assess their cognitive ability and overall neurologic development. They may also utilize a psychiatrist or psychologist to work on behavioral management in conjunction with medication. If you live near Cleveland, The Cleveland Clinic has the resources to assist you, just call 1-800-223-2273 ext. 45559 or I have provided one of the many organization to assist you in regards to this diagnosis. They can provide information as well as being a resource for other available physicians in your area. I hope it is helpful.
National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS)
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal Alcohol Effect
Address: 1819 H Street, NW #750; Washington, DC 20006-3604
Contact person: Patti Munter, Executive Director
Phone: 202-785-4585
Toll-free number: 1-800-666-6327 (1-800-66NOFAS) Days and
hours answered: M-F, 8:30-6
Fax number: 202-466-6456
