The Australian government rejected Concerta, a long-acting form of Ritalin, “on the basis of uncertain efficacy and safety,” and because of concerns that the drug could be diverted for illegal use at government expense. However, 19,000 Australian children were prescribed the drug last year. Ritalin has been linked to increased blood pressure in children, and has been associated with sudden death of cardiac abnormalities, and can increase aggression and hostility as well as weight gain and retarded growth.

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