2. From: Connie Lavern Butts scarlett855@yahoo.com
Subject: To Keith Albertson. Editor: Re: Submission Query
December 12, 2016
To: Kalbertson@gainesvilletimes.com
Hello Keith,
Amphetamine use has steadily increased as long as I can remember. Today we commonly see
news stories about how methamphetamine has become the “go-to-drug” for many because it
stimulates alertness and a feeling of well-being in those who use it. It is a commonly overlooked
fact that amphetamines, which are prescribed for medical problems such as Narcolepsy and
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are hitting the streets at an alarming rate as well, thus
contributing to the growing numbers of addicts today.
Statistics reported in April 2016 stated that there were 2.5 million emergency department visits
reported in 2015 in the United States, and those that were a result of amphetamine, PCP, and
methamphetamine use ranged from 71,000 to 103,000 according to the website
amphetamines.com. Those same reports said the drug of choice for young adults, adolescents,
and college students are amphetamines.
The same alarming information was echoed by the National Forensic Laboratory Information
System when reports showed between 2007 and 2011 the numbers of ADD/ADHD stimulants
that were submitted by the DEA doubled from 4,451 to 9,890.
Many of the drugs confiscated were initially prescribed legally and later used for illegal
purposes; some were obtained from drug dealers, and some people got prescriptions by lying
about symptoms to health care providers according to The Brown University (2015). College
students reported knowledge of the problem stating that students with legitimate prescriptions
would either give away the drugs or sell them for between $5 and $15 per pill.
The Harris Poll conducted a survey of college students between May 15 and June 11, 2014, to
determine how widespread the problem of amphetamine abuse was at that time and the reasons
behind it. The study concluded that one in four students believe it is ok to take ADHD
medication illegally to help with their schoolwork. Forty-eight percent of those who responded to
the survey felt that students who misuse the drug do it because they feel it is needed to keep up
with the pressures of college according to the Brown University study.
It is widely known that prescriptions for amphetamine-like drugs are used to treat Narcolepsy
and ADHD. These drugs are quite effective in relieving symptoms when used according to
directions. The success of using these drugs has been reported since the 1960’s and the result has
been the growing trend to medicate rather than treat the underlying causes along with the
prescribed use of the medications. Almost everyone knows about the successes achieved by the
use of drugs such as Ritalin, Methylphenidate, and other symptom-controlling drugs but
relatively few know that more can be done, and it could bring lasting results rather than
3. temporary relief. With this in mind, I am sure that the reading audience will benefit from the
knowledge that can bring permanent relief of these menacing symptoms. I also believe the
reading audience should be made aware of these alarming statistics and how serious the
continued use of controlled medications can be as well as the harmful effects that misuse can
cause.
Although I have not personally published information on this topic, I have done intense research
due to having two children who suffer from these disorders. One of my children has ADHD, and
the other suffers from Narcolepsy. I personally understand the impact this information will have
on readers who suffer or have loved ones who suffer from these disorders as well. I am currently
a Journalism student at Ashford University in my last year. I have samples of writing along with
my profile found at LinkedIn.com that I welcome you to view.
The experts I have interviewed about this topic include:
Patricia Quinn, Pediatrician in Washington, D.C. who specializes in ADHD
Peter R. Breggin, Psychiatrist in Ithica, N.Y.
Richard Milich, Professor of Psychology, the University of Kentucky in Lexington
Lawrence Diller, Developmental Pediatrician in Walnut Creek, California
Ruth Hughes, Ph.D., former CEO of CHADD and current special advisor to the CHADD board
You may visit my website at https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-butts-
49062536?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile to view writing samples from my previous courses at
Ashford University.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Connie Butts
