More kids in the United States may be accidentally, or intentionally, overdosing on ADHD medications.
Researchers found a more than 70% increase in calls to U.S. poison control centers related to kids ingesting drugs prescribed for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder between 2000 and 2011.
After 2011, there was a small, but, not statistically significant dip.
Most cases were accidental, where either young children got a hold of the drugs or kids were mistakenly given a double dose of ther prescription.
The report states nearly 20% of calls were made after a teenager intentionally abused this medication, or they may have made a suspected suicide attempt.
The team notes calls to poison control centers are often made by worried parents whose kids aren't actually sick, but, might have been exposed to a drug.
Study authors remind parents if they suspect their child is abusing any type of drug, they should talk to their healthcare provider.
Findings appear in the journal "Pediatrics."
