While I don't know about Ritalin, it can be dangerous to suddenly stop taking certain medications. For example, if someone who is taking steroids suddenly stops, it can have dangerous consequences. It probably wasn't a good idea for his family to stop his Ritalin without checking with their doctor, first.

The article is kind of strange. It begins by mentioning the case about the boy being removed from Ritalin, but most of the article talks about antidepressants.

Hyperactivity and Ritalin is very controversial. In some cases, it seems that quite a few boys are being put on the drug for actually acting like boys (a chronic condition) instead of acting like girls. In other cases, there are kids who seem unable to control their behavior. As a former teacher, I know how hard it is to teach a class when even one kid is disruptive.

Ritalin is a very powerful stimulant. Any parent rightfully be concerned about potential side effects and the possibility of long term damage. What effect, if any, does long term Ritalin use have on a child's mental development? Are kids who've used Ritalin for years any more likely to have problems with illegal drug use?