Drugs will can definately change your biochemistry. Other things to seriously consider are food allergies/chemical sensativities and gut ecology issues, especially because of the unique challenges CF children face.
Food allergies can be the cause of many behavioral issues. I know of a school psychologist who now sends all ADHD/ADD and behavioral issue children to be allergy tested using what is called NAET. They have found great success with treating the children using this method. <a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="http://www.naet.com/PublicWebStore/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=31&osCsid=34d3b2c26fc098e3f12354a1e29169d9">http://www.naet.com/PublicWebS...c098e3f12354a1e29169d9</a> Check out the home page for general explanation of this system. We have used it if you would like to know more about it. They have a locator as well on the site which is how we found our doctor.
In addition, gut ecology plays a role in biochemical balance in the body. Much of the body's biochemistry starts in the gut. If a person's gut is inflammed (due to drug use or CF related issues), lacks the proper flora to protect the lining of the intestines, and they are not breaking down food properly; brain chemistry is thrown off. In CF, there is much against the proper functioning of the gut. Antibiotics and other drugs deplete the intestine of healthy bacteria and other vitamins. Inflammation in the lungs and intestines is very common and interrelated. So probiotic and anti-inflammatory support is a must. Daily probiotic will help keep flora balanced and reduce inflammation. Other supplements like DHA (which is also used to support brain chemistry), possibly tumeric (if liver/bile issues don't exist), Glutathione, vitamin C and sometimes dietary changes can keep inflammation at bay and end up helping the lungs as well.
Ritalin and drugs are not the answer and will simply cover up the underlying issue. Many children are on these drugs without evey investigating other possible solutions. My cousin was placed on these as a child and is now suffering greatly as a teen.
Hope somethign sparks and idea and that you get answers. I know it is frustrating.
