Some drugs used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can cause priapism, prolonged and painful erections in boys, according to AP.
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), painful erections may be a side effect of preparations containing methylphenidate, a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used, among others, in in the treatment of ADHD. It is found in drugs such as ritalin, concerta and daytrana.
The FDA encourages physicians to report these effects to parents, who should discuss it with their sons under treatment for hyperactivity. Painful erections can last more than 4 hours.
The name priapism derives from the ancient god Priap depicted with an erect penis. The ailment itself can have various causes. In every third case it is not known at all, but in every fifth affected man it is associated with taking medications.
So far it has been known that priapism can be caused by papaverine, a drug with a strong antispasmodic effect, and alprostadil, used in the treatment of vasculitis, to improve the blood supply to the extremities. Sickle cell anemia and spinal cord injuries are another cause of prolonged erections. (PAP)
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