ADHD drug ban rejected by Australia

Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration, not politicians, should decide whether 56 alleged adverse reactions to US drug major Eli Lilly's  Strattera (atomoxetine) are grounds for a ban, the Labor government has  declared. The announcement follows a campaign by a West Australian state  lower house member, Michael Whitely (Labor), who said that the drug  regulator had received 18 reports of self-harm or suicidal thoughts for  patients using the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder agent.

The complaint by Mr Whitely follows reports that a stronger dose of  Strattera was added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and that,  since the original strength was approved for reimbursement in 2007,  prescribing leapt over 700%.