The Australian Medical Association has called for an in-depth analysis of an ADHD drug, after its use was linked to increased risk of suicide.

The most recent update from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) says that there have been 74 reports where the drug ADHD drug Strattera has been associated with psychiatric disorders.

There were also reports of more than one attempt at suicide by a young person who was prescribed the drug.

Child psychiatrist and University of Adelaide Professor Jon Jureidini says it is a dire situation when so many are quickly diagnosed and treated with mind-altering drugs, saying “the reality is that there is still bad prescribing going on, lazy prescribing.”

Steve Hambleton from the AMA says that his concerns are for a significant population, with around 3 to 5 per cent prescribed the Strattera pill. He believes all states need to get together to pool their reports and plans.

“There's certainly variations between the prescription rates, and there's a lot of prescribing in NSW, and we do need to analyse that more,” Hambleton said.

“Does that mean we should be prescribing more in other states, or does it mean we should be looking at alternative methods in NSW?”

“...it's always worth looking at that variation they're describing so we can get a better outcome.”