To all Parents of kids with ADHD

[In Luv with Disney]

Hi everyone. I am just wondering if anyone has kids with ADHD. (I am SURE there are!!!)

My son, Nathaniel, who just turned 5 and has it. He is at the point where the doctor says he NEEDS medication in order to function in his classroom (he's in Kindergarten). He really isn't doing well in school...he needs constant supervision all day. But he IS making friends, which I am happy about! (although he won't think twice about knocking over their buildings when they are playing :confused3 )

As far as meds, the doctor wants to try RITLIN, but I have heard such TERRIBLE things about it. I want to do my research and see what drugs other people have success with. She doesn't want to try Aderall, because she says it can cause heart problems according to a recent study.

This is such a trying time for me and my family (*my poor little guy :sad2: ). I just want to do the right thing and I don't want his personality to change once he goes on meds!!!! It will be a very difficult decision.

So...if anyone has any opinions on the matter, I am open to hearing EVERYTHING anyone has to say.

Thanks in Advance.

P.S. in addition to ADHD, the teachers and phychologists in his school think he may have Aspergers, too! It's the lack of social skills, among other things that give them this opinion.

[riu girl]

Does your child have an in class aid in order to assist him with his day? DD was diagnosed with ADHD (severe/profound) at age 4 and having the aid helped so much. She is now 9, ADHD has been reassessed as mild/borderline and she now functions quite well in class without any sort of support/aid (she is an A/B student).

She has never been medicated but takes karate, yoga and plays a lot of sports. She also had years of social skills classes as well as behavioural therapy. We feel that medicating a child is a very personal issues, but for us, we tried many other avenues and never had to medicate. Read as much as you can about Ritalin before you make a decision. I read so much about it (especially scientific articles since I have a BSc) and the article that turned me off most was in a study where cocaine and ritalin were used interchangeably.

DD at one time saw a naturalpath and was on a few supplements (fish oils, vitamin B, calucium/magnesium, a very good multi vitamin) so perhaps you could consider that avenue as well.

Good luck with your decision.

[Taratink]

My son has ADHD and has Aspergers. He is in the 1st grade. We had the same problems last year. :sad2: What doctor told you he needs meds? Was it a Psychiatrist or your Ped? We put DS6 on meds. before we knew that he had Aspergers with poor results. He was so sensitive to the addreall and ritalin. They eventually made hims fall to pieces. He was filled with rage and the drugs had difficult side effects. It was just wrong for him. These meds. do work for other people just not us. We went to a neurophycologist for a full evaluation. They only picked up on the ADHD and mood regulation issues. We went to a great Psychologist he he diagnosed him with ADHD with Aspergers. Everything started to make sense, the sensory, impulse and social issues. The Psych. explained that Aspie kids can be very sensitive to medication. He suggested a medication called Tenex. It is a blood pressure med. that helps with impulse control. As far as we have been told there are very few small side effects. My son had improved greatly. He is still difficult but he is less frustrated. He is much happier so that makes me happy. This is so hard and I was really scared. DS has been on Tenex for 3 months, so this is still so new to us.
I do think that it is strange that any doctor would tell you that your son needs Med.That would make me nervous. There are many different routes people can and do take. The meds. are working for us but they are only a small bandaid. We have a lot of work to do with DS. Always work with the best people. We had a really bad Dr. at the begining and it just made things worse. Read and do research. You get to choose the people who interact with your son. I am still in the begining stages of all this. Feel free to pm me if you have any questions. Many towns will have spec. Ed forums and groups that can help you. I went to a seminar on neurophyc. exams and that got me to my great Psych. Good luck to you and your little guy. You WILL figure everything out and come to peace with all of this. :goodvibes
Tara

[mcraft17]

My dd is 10 and was diagnosed with ADHD when she was 4. She does need to be medicated because without it she really couldn't function very well in school. We once had a teacher (who had never seen my daughter off her medicine) ask me if she really needed the medicine. One day we were rushing out the door and forgot her medicine. The teacher said she saw why she needed it now. To medicate your child should not be taken lightly, it was a difficult desicion for us but I knew it was what I felt best for our dd. I have seen some children who do fine without the medicine then I have seen those that really could use it and are suffering because their parents feel that it is wrong to medicate a child. You must decide for yourself what is best. Now to answer your question about what medicine, we have tried quite a few to find the best with the least side effects. Adderall, Concerta, and the new Daytrana didn't work. Ritalin did work but she had to take a second dose at school (YUCH) so we tried Ritalin LA which is the long acting and it worked well but we switched about a year ago to Focalin XR because it is Ritalin without some of the harsh ingredients that are not needed. Because of this you can use a lower dose with the same results. We really like it and other than slowing her down a bit she still seems like her normal self whereas some meds didn't. Hope all goes well and if you have any questions you can pm me.

[ptjohns]

Hello,
My DD is 10 and has been on Ritalin for 3 years. It makes a huge difference in school and she now gets excellent grades and does just fine. It's practically a non-issue now. Many people were against it at the beginning but we tried the medicine in small doses and saw an immediate improvement. I'm glad we did. She's much happier and so are we. Best wishes for your family!

[mbb]

My best friend's little guy - just turned 6 - had a nightmare year in school last year.

He exhibits some ADHD, Autism, and Tourette's behaviours....but nothing is really identifying itself clearly.

They decided to have him repeat his Kindergarten year...and he was still really struggling this last month.

A 3 week "blind trial" was suggested to her, by her pediatric intervention team.

Ritalin, Dexedrine, and a placebo.

She started him on it this past Saturday morning.
She doesn't know which one he is getting each week. (but she had to take the gel capsule apart to get the meds into him, and discovered today that he's probably on the Dexedrine this week :blush: )

...and he's the same little boy she knows and loves, and all of a sudden, can participate in class, isn't hiding under his desk anymore, sleeping better at night, and told his mother today that he "didn't know school could be that fun, mommy!!"

As much as it's difficult to know what to do, as a parent...as my best friend cried today, she "wishes they had tried this last year".

You know, you do the best you know how, and the best your instincts tell you.

DH and I wonder and hope every day - we know the time is coming to think about meds for our little guys - that we're doing the right thing...we know we're doing the best we know how, for today.

Hugs, :grouphug: , and good luck:)

:sunny:

[SueM in MN]

A 3 week "blind trial" was suggested to her, by her pediatric intervention team.

Ritalin, Dexedrine, and a placebo.
One of my sisters did the same thing with my niece at the suggestion of her doctor (but I think they only did Ritalin and the placebo). The school and the parents kept a diary of what they were seeing. As it turned out, my niece figured out which was the Ritalin because she could tell the difference in her concentration. She said that math made sense where it just seemed to jumble together before. She, her mom and the teachers worked on some techniques to help her deal with the ADD and she actually chose to go off the medication when she was a teen. She's now in her 20s and doing very well.

[In Luv with Disney]

This is all just SO confusing for me! I really don't know which avenue to take.

We have been taking him to Schneider's Children's Hospital for 2 years. They have a BEHAVIORAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DIVISION that is supposedly the best in New York. As of our last appointment, the psychologist said she thought meds would be a good idea. I said "No" at that point, because I at least wanted to wait until he started Kindergarten. I wanted to see how he would do in school.

He is in an INCLUSION class, but does not have an "AID" specifically for him. I think I need to request another CSE meeting and request a bunch of stuff...we had our last meeting in June. I want them to approve an AID for him, if they feel that will help. Right now, there is a full time teacher and a full time assistant in the class and the assistant is basically spending ALL of her time with my son. He needs CONSTANT supervision. He also spends 20-25 minutes in the Resource Room with two other kids. He does seem to do better with fewer children around (his class has 22 kids and I think it is WAY too much stimulation for him!) In addition to the AID I would like to get, I would also like them to recommend and supply BEHAVIORAL therapy, possibly in a group setting. I just started taking him to a Social Worker/Psychologist (or Psychotherapist...not sure of her exact title) but it's one on one and she doesn't only deal with kids, she deals with all people, all issues. But she has had her share of ADHD kids. I would ALSO love to get some Behavioral Therapy for MYSELF! I am at wits end here, and I feel like I am just yelling all the time and it's not helping ANYONE.

*sigh* I am just so lost. Thanks for all the replies, I do appreciate it.

[Forevryoung]

If you want a consult with an amazing psychiatrist on Long Island, I can ask mine if he would be willing to take on another patient.

I dont think he takes insurance but his case load is really small. He listens better than any psychiatrist I've ever met and he understands things from both the child and the parent's perspective. He is extremely conservative and careful and I have been seeing him for 6 years at this point... He wouldn't push meds just because "it's his job". I no longer live on long Island (grad student) and he is the only person I would EVER trust to handle my brain (my life is way too important for some doctor to "play games" with it).

PM me if you want more info

[Taratink]

Kim- I think that many of us feel lost. I am chasing my own tail here. There are so many ups and downs and it seems like I am always trying something new or waiting for our next appt. to see someone. Time has helped a little. I can tell you that my son has made many improvements in school (DS7 ADHD and AS) from last year. Kindergarten was a nightmare. :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: :scared1: He is still really difficult for me but he can handle himself better a school. It sounds like you are working with some good people. Good luck to you and your son.
Tara :wave:

[mouseketeer_mom]

Hi, I'm Natalie and I too have a son with ADD. He is almost 7 and in the first grade. I won't go through our whole story, I'll just say that his currently taking concerta. I know medication isn't for everyone and I can't tell you how many nights I prayed that medicine wouldn't be for my son either. I can only tell you that it has completely changed my son's ability to be successful in school.

We had a similar "does he really need it?" conversation with his teacher this year. I really encouraged her to talk to his teacher from last year as his medicine was started in the middle of the school year. Two days later, I forgot to give him his meds before school. His teacher called by noon, "Oh yes, you were right, he NEEDs it".

It can be overwhelming. Read everything you can, ask and ask and ask, until all of your questions are answered. The bottom line for us came when his Kindergarten teacher told us how frustrated she was that he may have to go to summer school. She told us she knew he grasped the material but he couldn't focus long enough to pass the simplest tests. Back to the Dr. we went. He suggested that we try the medicine for a week, it would either make a significant difference or it wouldn't. Four weeks later, my son was off the summer school list, out of his two-to-one intervention, making friends and passing tests. He was happier. That's really what mattered to us.


I have a question for some of the other parents here. My son has, always, since birth, been a terrible sleeper. It absolutely astonishes me how little sleep he gets. His sleep patterns remain consistent on or off his meds. An example might be... up at six AM, day spent riding bikes, swimming 3 hrs in a pool, jumping on the trampoline, etc... bed at 9:30, and bouncing off the walls by 6 the next morning. Anyone else have a ADD kid that can't seem to get the sleep he needs?

[mcraft17]

[QUOTE=I have a question for some of the other parents here. My son has, always, since birth, been a terrible sleeper. It absolutely astonishes me how little sleep he gets. His sleep patterns remain consistent on or off his meds. An example might be... up at six AM, day spent riding bikes, swimming 3 hrs in a pool, jumping on the trampoline, etc... bed at 9:30, and bouncing off the walls by 6 the next morning. Anyone else have a ADD kid that can't seem to get the sleep he needs?[/QUOTE]

My dd is exactly the same. She also has seizures and takes medicine that doesn't help the situation either. I finally talked to her neurologist because I could tell that she was tired and grumpy but she just couldn't seem to get much sleep. He suggested taking a supplement found over the counter called Melatonin. It is what our body naturally produces and they have found that some children with ADHD produce less melatonin so it is harder for them to go to sleep and stay asleep. We tried it and it has been wonderful! I can tell that she is more rested and less grouchy. I decided to try it because it was something our body naturally produces and not some harmful medicine and it is not habit forming because it is natural. You might want to check into it and ask your doctor. Hope that helps, you can pm if you have any questions.

[cymomtx]

This is all just SO confusing for me! I really don't know which avenue to take.

We have been taking him to Schneider's Children's Hospital for 2 years. They have a BEHAVIORAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DIVISION that is supposedly the best in New York. As of our last appointment, the psychologist said she thought meds would be a good idea. I said "No" at that point, because I at least wanted to wait until he started Kindergarten. I wanted to see how he would do in school.

That sounds just like my DS now 16, starting at age 2, we knew something was wrong. He was kicked out of one daycare at age 5 and a MDO program after that. The MDO teacher though decided to give him a second chance and make him or project. She realized he just needed a little more attention. The Dr kept suggesting meds, but we were not ready. When Kinder started, 3 weeks in, the teacher sat us down and said it just was not working. I called the Dr. and started him on Ritalin, we (DH and teacher) could not believe what a different child he was. The next year we found out he is AS, and that is why he had such difficulty in daycare from day one.

[cymomtx]

My dd is exactly the same. She also has seizures and takes medicine that doesn't help the situation either. I finally talked to her neurologist because I could tell that she was tired and grumpy but she just couldn't seem to get much sleep. He suggested taking a supplement found over the counter called Melatonin. It is what our body naturally produces and they have found that some children with ADHD produce less melatonin so it is harder for them to go to sleep and stay asleep. We tried it and it has been wonderful! I can tell that she is more rested and less grouchy. I decided to try it because it was something our body naturally produces and not some harmful medicine and it is not habit forming because it is natural. You might want to check into it and ask your doctor. Hope that helps, you can pm if you have any questions.

My daughter takes Seroquel, she had the same difficultys sleeping and was so grumpy and uncooperative in the day. We knew since day light savings she just had not adjusted back to a regular sleep pattern (Melatonin was no longer working). Since the DR. switched her from Geodon to Seroquel she has been a different child.

[mouseketeer_mom]

Thanks so much for the info regarding the sleep deprivation. I've spent most of the morning reading articles on the melatonin and other medicines you've mentioned. I'll try to talk to my Dr. today.

Because I've noticed limited sleep patterns in Chase since birth, I've often wondered which came first, the chicken or the egg (the sleep disorder or the ADD). I'm anxious to try anything that might give him the restful sleep he needs.

[LindaBabe]

I am an adult, diagnosed at about age 50. Ritalin has been a godsend. I have no doubt that my life would have been totally different had I had the drug as a child. It's taken me a while to get over the anger over my 'lost potential'. But then there was no such thing as ADD back in the 50's.

[In Luv with Disney]

I thank EVERYONE who has responded here. As of now, I still don't know what I am going to do. I might try to change his diet for the next month to see if that works. I have an interesting article my neighbor cut out for me, saying that ADHD is misdiagnosed a lot of the time. Usually there is a vitamin deficiency of Omega 6. And the article also said to stay away from artifical sweetners (aspartame, etc) and also certain food dyes.

Hey, it's worth a shot. :confused3

[disneygal66]

My DS 11 is ADHD, Anxiety Disorder and NVLD (non verbal learning disorder - similar to Aspergers). He has been on several different meds since he was 6 but we have found that Concerta works the best for him. He can not focus in school without some help. We were totally against meds but it was the last alternative for us and it has made a world of difference. We can always tell if his meds were forgotten b/c he gets extremely hyper and loud. For now, it's working and i pray that eventually he will be able to stop at some point. I am sure you will do what is best for your child!!:grouphug:

[mouseketeer_mom]

I thank EVERYONE who has responded here. As of now, I still don't know what I am going to do. I might try to change his diet for the next month to see if that works. I have an interesting article my neighbor cut out for me, saying that ADHD is misdiagnosed a lot of the time. Usually there is a vitamin deficiency of Omega 6. And the article also said to stay away from artifical sweetners (aspartame, etc) and also certain food dyes.

Hey, it's worth a shot. :confused3

I have to agree. I spent a great deal of time really searching for the right answers for my son. There are still times where I'm not completely convinced that ADD is the root of Chases issues. My armchair diagnosis would probably be a sleep disorder. Sleep disorders are one of the things that are commonly misdiagnosed as ADD. I will continue to look for other answers.

For Chase, right now, medicine works. He was really struggling both academically and socially (poor impulse control) in school before medication. My husband and I went to his first parent/teacher conference this year. His teacher told us that he was working at or above grade level in all of his subjects, was making friends and had even received a "kindness towards classmates" award. I can't describe the feeling. My husband and I left the school in a semi state of surprise. When we reached the car, tears were rolling down my face.

Try anything and everything that might make a difference. Something will help. I tend to think of his medicine as something to relieve the symptoms and buy me time while I still look for other answers. Good luck and remember that you are not alone.

[Brightsy]

My older son Sammy, 7, is ADHD. I've known since he was about 2 that he has it. (I have ADHD and was on ritillin (sp?) as a kid for several years, I'm not on meds anymore, haven't been since I was 12 or so. I've learned to function well enough w/out.) Sammy's on meds, Focalin right now. It seems to be doing good by him. He can't function in school w/out the meds, and with them he's been getting As and Bs in class! At a recent parent-teacher meeting his teachers told me that he is a bright, engaging and delightful child!

My younger son, Vinny, has autism and may be showing signs of ADHD as well (not uncommon I'm told). We're waiting to see, there is a good chance a lot of Vinny's ADHD like behavior is simple emulation of his big brother's behavior. Hopefully that's the case.

In Sammy's case we tried diet modification and such before he was "officially" diagnosed and put on meds. Didn't really work for him. It helped a little and there are certain foods we avoid, esp. before focus is needed.

[DisneyDork712]

I don't really know much about ADHD, so I'm afraid I can't offer any advice. I don't even have any kids - yet! I have had several kids at work with ADHD though. I just wanted to say good luck with whatever you decide! :grouphug:

[FayeW]

Thanks so much for the info regarding the sleep deprivation. I've spent most of the morning reading articles on the melatonin and other medicines you've mentioned. I'll try to talk to my Dr. today.

Because I've noticed limited sleep patterns in Chase since birth, I've often wondered which came first, the chicken or the egg (the sleep disorder or the ADD). I'm anxious to try anything that might give him the restful sleep he needs.


My daughter also has a severe sleeping disorder. I used to give her Benadryl to put her to sleep, but it wasn't keeping her asleep. She would wake up at 3 or 4 in the morning and watch TV ( an ADHD child unsupervised while the rest of the family is asleep...not what you want!) She has been taking Clonodine for a few years now, and it has made a huge difference.

The problem is that alot of the symptoms of ADHD are shared with sleep deprivation. It is kind of a "which came first, the chicken or the egg" situation. It's hard to know what to do. You just pray and hope things turn out right.

[JoiseyMom]

What a great thread!! It is so great to see I am not alone.

OP, I know what you are going through!! My ds is 5 1/2 and in Kindergarten. He is in a full day private program. I actually followed a specific teacher, when the pre-school he was going to, was not going to be able to have the Kindergarten class, and I lost a months tuition (almost $600) to be with his current teacher. We have know for a few years that he was ADHD, he was offically diagnosed this summer, when we took him to DD's neurologist. He suggested several meds, but I wasn't ready to medicate yet. My pediatrician also doesn't believe in medicating until first grade. Well, my son's teacher sat down and had a talk with me. My son, cannot sit still in class, and even though he is very very bright, and is following all the material, he is all over the place. It didn't come as a total surprise, he is on the go from first thing in the morning, until he passes out at night. Now this teacher is wonderful, she was DD kindergarten teacher, and knows both my kids. We are now in process of trying to obtain Daytrana for DS, but we can't get it anywhere in the smallest dosage. I am waiting to hear back from our neurologist. I honesly don't want to medicate him, but I don't feel we have a choice in the matter.

Now, DD10, has epilepsy, ADD and tourettes. She is on 2 anti-seizure drugs and has been seizure free for 18 months!! She takes clonidine to help her sleep, and it does wonders. We put her on Daytrana 1 month ago (the same time we wanted to put DS on it), and she is doing better in school. We had her teacher conference the other night, and both her teachers (she is in a class with two teachers) say that they have noticed a change in her behavior. She is more consistent in her class work, not as fidgety, and is making the first move in social situations. DH and I were thrilled!!! I hate the idea that she takes 3 types of meds, not counting her allergy meds during the non-winter months, but it is helping.

All I can do, is suggest a try out of the drugs, if diet doesn't work.

Good luck and keep us posted on what you decide to do!

[Tigger2252]

What a great thread! My 12 yr. old dd was diagnosed with ADHD when she was 9. The diagnosis came after 5 horrible school years. She had so many problems in kindergarten (distracting other, eventually removed from the story rug to sit at her table during story time) we contemplated taking her out for another year. She struggled through first grade and repeated second grade. Finally after almost weekly phone calls from her 3rd grade teacher I had her tested and diagnosed. I was very resistant to medication as well, but finally relented after much soul-searching and research. She began taking Concerta that year and she had a much better school year. Because she is thin she eventually was switched over to Adderal. She took that up until this summer when her neurologist diagnosed her with Tourettes. He switched her to Strattera because the stimulants aggravated her tics, he also prescribed Clonidine to help control them. One benefit she got from the medication change was better sleep habits. She had never slept through the night since the day she was born. Finally, at 12 she slept through the night. I have agonized over having to medicate her, but know from our experience with her that she is a child that needs it. Good luck with whatever you decide. :grouphug:

[spokanemom]

I won't post the long drawn out drama, but my 12 yo was diagnosed with ADHD in 1st grade. After being removed from his 1st grade class about 3 days out of 5 for behavior issues (knocking down his desk, yelling at other kids, COMPLETE inability to focus on anything) he was put on Metadate CD. It is a once a day pill. We have never had issues with it.

I struggled with whether or not meds were the route to go, and we tried many other options, but we tried the Metadate and I must say that he is glad that he takes them too. He is a happy well adjusted 7th grader (ok, as well adjusted as a 7th grader can be... :rotfl2: ). But we are happy with the decision.

I only offer you peace with whatever decision you make. You will do what is right for your child.

[wvdislover]

My DD9 was diagnosed with ADHD when she was 5 and in kindergarten (although I knew when she was only 1 or 2--couldn't attend to any activity for more than about 30 seconds!). My DH wasn't real sure about putting her on meds, but went ahead with it, just to try it out. Before meds, she would just scribble when she colored. About 2 weeks after starting on her meds, I showed my DH a picture our DD had colored, and she had stayed in the lines and colored appropriately. It took some convincing for him to believe that she had actually colored the picture. He said, "How did she do this?" My reply..."Her meds." He was convinced. We tried Adderall, but it made her sick, so we switched to Concerta, which we stayed on until last year. We then changed her to Focalin XR, and added Prozac, for anxiety issues. The Focalin didn't do a whole lot for her impulsiveness (a major issue for her), so we recently added Straterra to her daily dosings, which we give her in the afternoon with a low dose of Ritalin (to get through homework time and everyday life). For us, meds have been a lifesaver--we can see a real difference in our DD. She has a number of disabilities, including ADHD, anxiety issues, sensory integration disorder, autistic tendencies, Asperger's, and a fine motor delay. There may be more there, but that's all that's been diagnosed, so far. She is passing school (C's and a couple of D's, that her teacher is hoping the Straterra will help bring up). Her special ed. teacher, who comes in to see my DD for 30 minutes every afternoon at school, says that she's just impressed that my DD is passing school, with all the issues she has going on. Without the meds, I hate to see where she'd be now. Life is not perfect for us, but it's pretty good. We have good days and bad. You just take it one day at a time. You learn to stay on top of things at school to make sure your child isn't falling through the cracks, as can easily happen with ADHD kids and mildly autistic kids. This is our story, one which continues to be written daily. I wish you hugs and lots of luck in writing your own with your DS! :grouphug:

[jmskinner]

My DS8 (TODAY!) is on Strattera. He is ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder and signs of Aspergers. You now have me researching the HFA because I have never heard of it and my DS has a lot of socialization issues. We started him on medication at 5. He was diagnosed at 4 and we didn't want to consider medicine until he was in school. Well, after dealing with a daycare kicking him out we went to see his pediatrician to speak with her about medication. Her first comment was she would not consider it until he was six. Within 5 minutes she had changed her mind and referred us to a child pschiatrist. We started him on clonidine. That first day he slept a lot and we were concerned because that was our worst fear. But within two weeks I noticed toys he was previously throwing across the room in frustration within 5 minutes of playing with them, he was now able to spend two hours playing with. Now, medicine didn't cure everything. Kindergarten and first grade were horrible, but we now have switched him to a different school in our district and the difference is amazing. Last year I think we had about 6 different ARDS and he spent 9 weeks in a classroom where he was in cubical all day. So far we have only had one this year and that was the yearly review. And, it only took 30 minutes. Previously it was always almost 2 hours. I also never took him shopping, he stayed home with DH if I had to go to Wal-Mart or somewhere. Now I take him everywhere. He is not perfect, but I think a perfect child would be boring.

My DS8 spends the first hour of the day at school with a special ed teacher who goes over any work he did not finish the day before and any work that requires a lot of instruction. This helps his teacher out because she is able to give the long instructions to the rest of the class, where previously he would disturb the class. So the class is receiving their instruction and so is he. He has a desk separated from the rest of the class, but he is given the whole back of the classroom to move around this way and it doesn't disturb the rest of the class. At the end of the day he has an aide (local college student) come in and help him finish the day. If he starts misbahaving and not listening he goes to the office and if they are not able to handle him he goes back to the special education teacher. At his previous school the office couldn't deal with him at all, I was constantly having to go get him. All this office does is give him a stack of books to read and he will normally do so immediately. It is only when a lot of people are in and he gets distracted that they can't handle him.

I don't know how other schools handle reading, but here the child reads what they call Accelerated Reading books and takes a test on the computer. My boy loves taking the tests, so that is actually a motivator. He can't take the test until finishes his work. DS hates to write and that is where a lot of his frustration comes from.

I have also started working part time so I am able to spend more quality time with in the evening instead of rushing to get supper, homework, bath and the bedtime. The stress level in the house has went way down.

I noticed a lot of people were mentioning sleeping problems. I actually had a sleep study performed on my DS. It wasn't easy because they place all these probes on him and the one up the nose was horrible. There wasn't any really significant but they did say he awoke more than he should have. We took him to an ENT (which we probably should have done first, but he had seen one when he was 4 because we had hoped it was his tonsils and not ADHD). The ENT said his tonsils were large, not overly huge, but large. They said with the size of the tonsils and the results of the sleep study they would recommend removing the tonsils. We did and he sleeps a lot better now and we noticed an improvement from that. The old school did say his frustration level did improve. Even though there are high risks with any surgery, I would recommend anyone looking into it. Especially if your child snores. DS did only snore a little. One down side is DS is a picky eater. I had heard several stories of people whose children couldn't smell and they didn't realize it until after the tonsils were removed. Most children start eating better because now they can smell the food. Not my DS. Now everything stinks. Even the popcorn smell at the concession stand at the movie theater stinks to him and he walks around with his shirt over his nose. But within 15 minutes of putting him to bed at night he is asleep now. And I can tell he is getting a much better sleep.

Sorry this is so long and I hope it helps. We have to move next year, just don't know where yet. I know I will be posting on this message board for any ideas on schools districts when I know what area we will be moving to.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Sunday. :goodvibes

[Mish]

My DS(8) was diagnosed at 5 with ADHD, He is unable to swallow pills so we could not medicate him. This year we started using the Patch it is called Datrana. All I can say it what a difference. He is doing so much better in school no more fighting to do homework. Weekends are not as stressful.

[Pembo]

My ds now 10 was diagnosed at 4. We held off on meds on until 1st grade and they have made a world of difference. We started on Focalin and last year switched to Concerta. He saw a psychologist for many years but until last year (age 9) it didn't help him. It is only recently that he is beginning to understand his disability and how it affects him and how the medicine helps.

A wise doctor once told us that if you take Adhd meds and don't really need them, they will have the opposite effect. (crank you up instead of calm you down). Ritalin stays in the body for such a short time that I would have no fear in giving it to a child. If you child is truly ADHD you will see an improvement. Proper dosage and the proper meds will not change your child, just allow him to shine.

We found an awesome psychiatrist last winter who is extremely knowledgable in adhd meds and that's why we switched to Concerta.

Trust your doc. At least try the meds. Keep a journal of behavior, both positive and negative after trying the meds. You may have to try different meds to find the one that best benefits your child. Remember, if your child had diabetes, you wouldn't hesitate to try meds. ADHD is a chemical imbalance and medication will help.

Good luck to you.

[wvdislover]

Remember, if your child had diabetes, you wouldn't hesitate to try meds. ADHD is a chemical imbalance and medication will help.


Thank you for saying this! I wish more people would understand this and not treat parents of ADHD kids like bad parents who are just drugging their kids to make them behave.

[NewEnglandDisney]

What you do need to remember is that that most ADD/ADHD drugs are amphetamines of some sort. Speed.

Speaking as someone who has actually been diagnosed and taken them as an adult, yes, they can remarkably change your behavior. But they are not a pancea. In kids with hyperactivity, their bodies and actions appear to slow down because speed makes one more introspective, but what's going on in their heads is not always representative of that.

It's just important to know what you are giving your child. Now, I'm sure many people will disagree with me, but as someone that has actually taken the drugs before, I really recommend you take just one yourself before you give them to your kid. Again, I'm sure many people would believe that to be wrong, but it's honest as someone who has the diagnosis and has been on the meds before. I say this because I knew someone who had a child that once on ADD meds (dexadrine, which is the purest when it comes to being an amphetamine) would be found standing up in his room in the middle of the night, fully awake. They had no idea why. They didn't realize that it is mostly speed. Dexadrine in particular is the same chemicals, the same brand name that used to be sold as diet drugs in the 70's ("black beauties", etc.), or that they used to give narcoleptics to keep them awake (before they knew how to attack nacrolepsy more passively).

No one but you can decide if it's best for your child or not, and I know my opinion may be controversial, but these aren't passive drugs. They actively change your behavior and perception of the world. It's a big decision to decide to make them a part of your child's life. An honest doctor is going to explain to you chemically what these drugs are. I had a very experienced psychiatrist once explain to me the chemical differences between dexadrine and cocaine - they are remarkably similar. They are very powerful. That doesn't mean you should or should not use them, but while getting other points of view from a message board, only you will know what is right for your child.

NED

[JoiseyMom]

What you do need to remember is that that most ADD/ADHD drugs are amphetamines of some sort. Speed.

Speaking as someone who has actually been diagnosed and taken them as an adult, yes, they can remarkably change your behavior. But they are not a pancea. In kids with hyperactivity, their bodies and actions appear to slow down because speed makes one more introspective, but what's going on in their heads is not always representative of that.

It's just important to know what you are giving your child. Now, I'm sure many people will disagree with me, but as someone that has actually taken the drugs before, I really recommend you take just one yourself before you give them to your kid. Again, I'm sure many people would believe that to be wrong, but it's honest as someone who has the diagnosis and has been on the meds before. I say this because I knew someone who had a child that once on ADD meds (dexadrine, which is the purest when it comes to being an amphetamine) would be found standing up in his room in the middle of the night, fully awake. They had no idea why. They didn't realize that it is mostly speed. Dexadrine in particular is the same chemicals, the same brand name that used to be sold as diet drugs in the 70's ("black beauties", etc.), or that they used to give narcoleptics to keep them awake (before they knew how to attack nacrolepsy more passively).

No one but you can decide if it's best for your child or not, and I know my opinion may be controversial, but these aren't passive drugs. They actively change your behavior and perception of the world. It's a big decision to decide to make them a part of your child's life. An honest doctor is going to explain to you chemically what these drugs are. I had a very experienced psychiatrist once explain to me the chemical differences between dexadrine and cocaine - they are remarkably similar. They are very powerful. That doesn't mean you should or should not use them, but while getting other points of view from a message board, only you will know what is right for your child.

NED

Well I disagree with you. Taking the ADHD meds I give my children will not do the same to me as to them, because I do not have the chemical imbalance that is causing their ADHD. So it will not be the same. Both my DD and DS have ADHD, and the meds that are working so wonderfully for my DD aren't doing diddly for my DS. So having a parent take the same drugs as their child isn't a valid test for how thier child feels on it.

I haven't wanted to put my DD on any drugs for her ADHD, I was hoping to work with her through behavior and diet. She was also on so many drugs for her Eplipsey that I didn't want her on any more. We tried her on Strattera and it lowered her seizure threshold, so we took her off that, and waited 2 years to try something else. My DD who is very bright, but whose grades in school where all over the place from A - F, mostly lower grades, is now bringing home straight A's. She is able to concentrate and study and has very little unfinished work in class. We are so happy with her performance and she is so happy with herself. Her self confidence and self esteem is growing and it is wonderul to see her flourish this way. She is no longer saying she is stupid and can't do it. I am sorry I didn't do it sooner.

No we are hoping to find the correct meds to help our DS.

[LauraAnn630]

I totally agree with
JoiseyMom
Well I disagree with you. Taking the ADHD meds I give my children will not do the same to me as to them, because I do not have the chemical imbalance that is causing their ADHD. So it will not be the same.

I also agree you have to be very informed and involved with your doctors and decisions.

Everyone can react different to the same medications.

We just started DS on an ADD med. We have all seen a huge change. His grades were great!!!!!
He is 10. The doctor asked him questions about how he feels on this med.
He says he feels great. He didnt answer one question that we were concerned about his answer. Hes on a good sleeping schedule.

The biggie is the long term side effects. Thats what im concerned about.

[riu girl]

The biggie is the long term side effects. Thats what im concerned about.

The long term side effects are my main concern also the most prevelant being the permanent physical changes to the brain as proven time and time again during autopsies in children who have died (deaths NOT related whatsoever to the meds) while on ADD/ADHD meds.

[mouseketeer_mom]

The long term side effects are my main concern also the most prevelant being the permanent physical changes to the brain as proven time and time again during autopsies in children who have died (deaths NOT related whatsoever to the meds) while on ADD/ADHD meds.

As a parent of a child with ADHD that is currently taking Concerta, how do I deal with this?

We (my DH and I) were so resistant to medication. We tried everything! Our sons pre-school teacher requested an ADHD evaluation when he was barely 4. We paid out of pocket just so that he could see a psychologist that specialized in children with ADHD and specialized in children under 7. (yes, two specialties) We changed preschools, we tried behavior mod, we tried diet. We refused to medicate him at that age and the psychologist agreed. But what a struggle! Finally, when he turned six, we tried meds as a last resort. (it was a last ditch effort to keep him from repeating a grade) In two months he no longer was at risk of being held back. In three months he was out of a two to one reading intervention and off the summer school list. Less than a year later, he is working above grade level.

I felt like it was a miracle drug. The changes it brought both academically and socially was amazing. His self esteem, confidence, social skills etc, blossomed.

And then I here things like the above post. How do I deal with this as a parent? Where do I find the balance between offering him the means to happiness and success as he grows and develops as a young man and something that may cause changes in his brain that may be harmful?

[Cheshire Figment]

The long term side effects are my main concern also the most prevelant being the permanent physical changes to the brain as proven time and time again during autopsies in children who have died (deaths NOT related whatsoever to the meds) while on ADD/ADHD meds.
I'm just wondering. Are there published, peer-reviewed, studies on this or is it only anecdotal in nature? This is such a strong statement that it would be nice if you could provide some substantiation.

[riu girl]

O my goodness, the last thing I meant to do was to upset anyone with this post. I am truly sorry if I have done this.


I found this information in a scientific psychology journal ( in the reference department at Trent University , Peterborough, ON) while studying for my B.Sc. (before I even had a child with ADHD).

Having a child with ADHD, I have since mentioned this info. to 4 different drs/therapists. 3 of the 4 had not even heard of this potential side effect.

[SueM in MN]

Adding my voice to those who suggest NOT taking the child's medication. It will not work the same in someone with ADD as someone without ADD. It is a stimulent for people without ADD (and could be harmful). The same drug does not work as a stimulent for someone with ADD.

I would also be interested in seeing autopsy studies related to the long term effects of ADD drugs. My concern would be how do you separate out the changes related to just having ADD/ADHD and the changes related to having ADD/ADHD and being on stimulent drugs?

I know there have been brain imaging studies that show that the brains of people with ADD/ADHD work differently (different areas activated) than the brains of people without ADD/ADHD. When on the stimulent drugs, their brains tend to work more like people without ADD. This site has some interesting links. (http://www.addcoach4u.com/addandyourbrain.html)

I can't find any of the actual study reports right now, but I have read studies that point to there being a connection between children who did not receive any treatment for ADD/ADHD and later substance use to sort of self-medicate. (http://add.about.com/library/weekly/aa120901a.htm)

When one of my nieces was diagnosed with ADD, one of the things the doctor suggested was a medication trial with both a real drug and a placebo (inactive drug). The doctor knew which was which, but my niece, my sister and the teachers didn't know which was which. She took the real drug for a period of time and the placebo for the same period of time. She could tell a definite difference when she was on the actual medication. She said that her brain finally felt quiet so that she could concentrate on one thing at a time instead of being pulled in all directions. I know at the time, the doctor they were working with told my sister that the drugs worked best in conjunction with techniques to help her DD to organize and deal with the ADD. My niece did use the medications thru elementary and middle school, but decided to try without them in high school. She did fairly well in high school and actually worked as a waitress - not a job I would think of as one someone with ADD would be good at, but she was an excellent waitress.

[mouseketeer_mom]

She said that her brain finally felt quiet so that she could concentrate on one thing at a time instead of being pulled in all directions.

Wow, this is the exact same way my son articulated feeling while on his medication, same language. "My brain feels quiet enough to concentrate"

To riu girl: I certainly didn't think you posted regarding the change in brain just to get people upset. I truly appreciate hearing about any research of ADHD and the medications used to treat it. The reality is, not all research is "sunshine and roses". As a parent, I have to look at all the information available. So, thanks for sharing what you read :goodvibes

[JoiseyMom]

We are also worried about long term effects, but ritilan has been around a very long time and so far so good. You also have to weigh the side effects of them not taking the drugs. Poor grades, poor socialization, poor self esteem.

For us, the drugs have been wonderful. Now we are hoping that strattera helps our DS. He is currently in kindergarten, and I want him to be able to start 1st grade and be a wonderful student and the best that he can be.

[Brightsy]

I know there are plenty of adults living w/ ADHD/ADD on this board. I'm one of them, i think. When I was 5 1/2 (in Kinderdarden) I was diagnosed w/ dyslexia and hyperactivity. I was put on Ritalin and took it until I hit puberty around my 12th B-day.
I'm not on any meds now, and I haven't ever been revaluated since I was taken off the meds. It's been... uhm (Math-not my strong suit...thinking now...) 24 years since then. I haven't noticed any long-term effects, but then I've never had a brain scan of any kind that i can remember. None of the dr.s I've seen over the years have expressed any concerns. My heart and such is fine.
Matter of fact, the only people who've ever shown any real concern over my having been on Ritalin were the Scientologists... (Waaaaayyy back in my Army days some pals and I got a little...a lot...drunk (not proud of it, just stating the facts) and wandered into a Scientology place... barely made it out alive... LOL! Further tanget: Over the years since that experience I've been married twice and moved around MANY times and yet I still get mail from the Scientologists...if I ever go missing I've told Tony to contact Them, if they can find me wherever I go after all these years, moves and name changes they can find anyone!)
Ok, it's early-ish, and my brain is addled! Bye!

Sara

[wvdislover]

I really weighed out the options when deciding to put my DD9 on her various meds. The first one was really a no-brainer, when she was 5. I'd been trying to get a doctor to put her on Adderall since she was 3, but no one wanted to put her on anything until she started kindergarten (looking back, I wish I'd fought harder. She's still fighting developmental delays and educational delays b/c of not being able to focus on anything long enough to learn much). When we finally put her on meds, the Adderall made her sick, so we changed to Concerta. What a difference!!! She could sit, color, pay attention better, etc. She had a lot of problems with anger and anxiety, though, so we changed her to Focalin XR and added Prozac. The Prozac was something I had fought for a long time, as I was worried about the reports of heart trouble and suicidal thoughts. But after really looking at it and praying about it, I decided the risks were worth it. If I didn't do it, I was afraid that my DD, who already had really low self-esteem at 8 ("no one likes me, everyone in my class calls me weird, I'm stupid, you don't love me as much as you like my baby sister", crying almost every day), was going to become suicidal if we DIDN'T put her on something. It's really made a big difference--it was definitely a good decision. We have also now added Strattera in the afternoons to help with impulsivity. This, too has made a big difference. I'm so glad I have a support system of friends, doctors, teachers, and therapists who are generally on the same page I am. Life is not perfect, but it is a whole lot better than it could have been. Good luck everyone!

[wdwfamilyinIL]

I would also like to join the minority on this thread. As a child I was hyper with a very short attention span, teachers didn't want to deal with it then or do they want to deal with it now. Medications for alot of people seem to be a quick and easy fix, I am well aware that there are children who need this and benefit greatly from it, but there are just as many who don't. As a parent it amazes me at how fast teachers are to suggest the parents start medicating their children. I have three sons, all of whom are identical to me as a child. It isn't easy dealing with them at all, but as a parent I can't even think about giving them a medication that can have deadly side effects. There have been alot of studies that show a huge increase in sudicide in teenagers that have taken these medications. If your child has benefits from this, I am so happy for you, but knowing that this could happen scares me more than dealing with a hyperactive child. I learned how to function, and I too hope that my children will learn. I really didn't think as much about this until my last parent-teacher talk when the teacher couldn't believe that I was able to have a successful life without the use of medication. Again I am not trying to come down on anyone, if this works for you great, but in my own opinion it seems like there is just a lot of push to use meds.
On a side note, I read that someone commented that you wouldn't hesitate to medicate a diabetic child, so why would you not medicate this.....While they may both be imbalances within the body, they are still two different things. Its almost impossible to compare conditions, everyone reacts to them in different ways.

[PrincessMom2002]

Hi, I'm Natalie and I too have a son with ADD. He is almost 7 and in the first grade. I won't go through our whole story, I'll just say that his currently taking concerta. I know medication isn't for everyone and I can't tell you how many nights I prayed that medicine wouldn't be for my son either. I can only tell you that it has completely changed my son's ability to be successful in school.

I have a question for some of the other parents here. My son has, always, since birth, been a terrible sleeper. It absolutely astonishes me how little sleep he gets. His sleep patterns remain consistent on or off his meds. An example might be... up at six AM, day spent riding bikes, swimming 3 hrs in a pool, jumping on the trampoline, etc... bed at 9:30, and bouncing off the walls by 6 the next morning. Anyone else have a ADD kid that can't seem to get the sleep he needs?

Hi Natalie and everyone else :wave2: . I just found this thread. I've been posting my ADD experiences with my DS7 on the CB. Anyway, yes, my DS has always been active, little sleep needed. Even as a newborn he slept maybe 12 out of 24 hours. When I was pregnant with him he was active from the time I woke up (6am) until I went to bed (10pm). He never ever woke me up in the middle of the night with his movements, and I am a light sleeper.

We saw this diagnosis coming for many years. Just this Sept. the ball really got rolling with the school and now his ped. Last Saturday we tried Concerta but he couldn't swallow the pill. We tried many different techniques, but he has such a strong gag reflex anyway. Today is his first day on Daytrana 10mg. I keep asking him if he feels any different, if he feels OK. He says he doesn't notice a difference. I had a heck of a time getting the backing off the patch so I've been thinking that maybe it's not working right. But as I type this, he and DD are watching a Christmas show and he is actually SITTING on the couch watching it! Normally he's up, acting out the show, bouncing around. So maybe it is! This whole experience has been difficult as you all can relate. Last night and this morning I just prayed that this medication would help and not hurt. It's been an excrutiating decision, but more excrutiating has been watching his grades fall, him lose his interest in school, struggle to have friendships, and slowly go from the happy-go-lucky kid we've always known to this stressed out kid because he feels stupid. Along with the meds, we are meeting with the intervention team at his school this coming Wed. I do not plan to tell them we are trying meds. At least not until we are certain they are right for him and we see improvements. I'm not sure what all will come of this meeting, what they'll recommend, what services will be available, but I hope they put him on an IEP and he will be able to get tutoring.

Hugs to all going through this. I don't have any friends with kids with similar issues so I have nobody to talk to who can personally relate. It's hard sometimes.

[LOLA2]

DS 5 was diagnosed about a year ago. He was always touching everything,
could not enjoy one activity for very long, coudn't sit still, would get frustrated very easliy. In school his favorite thing to do was act like a tornado and mess everything up. He peed on a child on the playground because he got mad at something. He would tell my grandparents he didn't like them then tell me later that they are ugly beacuse they are old. Would say other people were fat within hearing distance ( I am no junior petite myself) He is just soooo impulsive. He just doesn't think before he says or does something. We signed him up for soccer and he would just wander off and start kicking all the balls onto the soccer field, signed up for t-ball and he would lay down in middle of field. But besides these things people are just enchanted with him, he is so loveable, funny and hardly ever get mad, is not shy. When we told the doctor all the things he was doing she had us fill out forms and then said it seems he has ADHD. Adderall XR kept him up, so now he is on Focalin. 10mg. I am not sure if this is the right amount or not. Some days he has great days big thumbs up from his teachers. Other days big thumbs down not listening and being defiant still impulsive on his bad days. I am wondering if his dosage needs to be increased, we tried it once for one day and he was extremely emotional. I don't know if it was from medication or not but we did not try again, maybe we should.

He is very into music will sit for hours listening to his animusic cd loves all musical instruments, loves listening to music. Either this is just a big intrest for him or anyone think maybe it could be anything else.

Also he does this thiing sometimes where he covers his ears while he is talking. So weird. He also talks over people, so if he is talking then daughter starts talking he will talk over her and get louder and louder until he starts screaming. Does not happen oftten, only when my daughter butts in.

I think sometimes maybe he has something else also. I hear about OCD and Asbergers. What exactly are these? Sometimes I just think there is something more. But it is so weird, sometimes on certain days we think
maybe he doesn't even have ADHD. It all depends on the day.

So weird.

[Mish]

Abby, My son started Daytrana just this year. I also had trouble with the backing, call the company and they will send you a coupon for a free prescription. Also my DS 8 started on 10 mg and i didnt notice anything. We went up to the 15 mg and he is doing much better. The only problem were having is a bad rash from the patch.

[PrincessMom2002]

Abby, My son started Daytrana just this year. I also had trouble with the backing, call the company and they will send you a coupon for a free prescription. Also my DS 8 started on 10 mg and i didnt notice anything. We went up to the 15 mg and he is doing much better. The only problem were having is a bad rash from the patch.

Thanks Mish! Does it just depend on the box of patches you get, whether or not the backing is going to be a PIA? And also, I thought the patches were supposed to be fairly easy to remove? DS was practically in tears. It did leave a red mark just at the site but I put vaseline on it after we cleaned off any residue and by bedtime the mark was gone. Speaking of bedtime, he couldn't fall asleep until almost midnight and he was up by 6:15 this morning. He had the patch on from 8:45am to 4:30pm yesterday. His ped. only wants him to have it on no more than 8 hours. And about 2 hours after we took it off, he was non-stop talking for about 30 minutes. My DH described it as a dam that had just been opened. It was actually quite funny but I sure hope that doesn't get worse. :lmao:

[Brightsy]

It sounds to me like your DS either needs a higher dose or a new med. My 7yr. DS was diagnosed 2 1/2 yrs. ago w/ ADHD (we knew for several years that the dx was coming...) he's currently on 25mg of Focalin XR. It's been the best of the meds we've tried so far. Adderal XR made him hyper emotional and killed his appetite, Concerta had a much milder effect but still wasn't ideal. The Focalin seems to be working well. His teachers love him and I haven't gotten any negative comments from them.
As to you DS having something else it's possible. However, sensory integration issues aren't uncommon in ADHD people. All of us have little sensory quirks, but ADHD kids can sometimes develop stronger ones. my DS, for example, has several sensory issues, like certain noises he can't abide (like when his 5yr. HFA brother starts a tantrum) and he HATES sticky stuff on his hands. He doesn't have Sensory Integration Disorder but it's a near miss for him, really.
Still, talk w/ your sons Dr., and maybe get an Occupational Therapy evaluation, it could answer a lot of questions.

Sara

DS 5 was diagnosed about a year ago. He was always touching everything,
could not enjoy one activity for very long, coudn't sit still, would get frustrated very easliy. In school his favorite thing to do was act like a tornado and mess everything up. He peed on a child on the playground because he got mad at something. He would tell my grandparents he didn't like them then tell me later that they are ugly beacuse they are old. Would say other people were fat within hearing distance ( I am no junior petite myself) He is just soooo impulsive. He just doesn't think before he says or does something. We signed him up for soccer and he would just wander off and start kicking all the balls onto the soccer field, signed up for t-ball and he would lay down in middle of field. But besides these things people are just enchanted with him, he is so loveable, funny and hardly ever get mad, is not shy. When we told the doctor all the things he was doing she had us fill out forms and then said it seems he has ADHD. Adderall XR kept him up, so now he is on Focalin. 10mg. I am not sure if this is the right amount or not. Some days he has great days big thumbs up from his teachers. Other days big thumbs down not listening and being defiant still impulsive on his bad days. I am wondering if his dosage needs to be increased, we tried it once for one day and he was extremely emotional. I don't know if it was from medication or not but we did not try again, maybe we should.

He is very into music will sit for hours listening to his animusic cd loves all musical instruments, loves listening to music. Either this is just a big intrest for him or anyone think maybe it could be anything else.

Also he does this thiing sometimes where he covers his ears while he is talking. So weird. He also talks over people, so if he is talking then daughter starts talking he will talk over her and get louder and louder until he starts screaming. Does not happen oftten, only when my daughter butts in.

I think sometimes maybe he has something else also. I hear about OCD and Asbergers. What exactly are these? Sometimes I just think there is something more. But it is so weird, sometimes on certain days we think
maybe he doesn't even have ADHD. It all depends on the day.

So weird.

[Mish]

Abby, The same thing happens with Jonathan about not being able to sleep, Jon wears his patch till 4 the doctor told me to take it off earlier. The doctor told me to buy Melatonin that would help him sleep but since i not able to find it in liquid and he cant swallow pills we cant use it. He is very hyper about an hour after the patch comes off. When i am afraid the patch isnt sticking correctly then i put a bandaid over the ends and that seems to help. I am noticing a few tic which they said is a side affefct and i am going to have to call the doctor. I hope they will pass i dont want to have to take him the medicine it does really help. Any other question please ask.

[jcat2312]

My daughter was recently diagnosed with ADD. We expected this, as we have been dealing with her inattentiveness for over a year now. Just today, she has started taking Adderall XR. I am really hoping that this medicine helps and doesn't have too many side effects on her, as she is already stressed out right now. The worse thing is that Chloe is starting the medication with a substitute teacher (her regular teacher won't be back for a month)!

Anyway, I am glad there is a forum here for ADD kids/adults. One of the first things Chloe asked for after getting the diagnosed was for another trip to WDW!! Of course, we will have to oblige on this one....

Hugs to everyone here!

[Forevryoung]

Abby, The same thing happens with Jonathan about not being able to sleep, Jon wears his patch till 4 the doctor told me to take it off earlier. The doctor told me to buy Melatonin that would help him sleep but since i not able to find it in liquid and he cant swallow pills we cant use it. He is very hyper about an hour after the patch comes off. When i am afraid the patch isnt sticking correctly then i put a bandaid over the ends and that seems to help. I am noticing a few tic which they said is a side affefct and i am going to have to call the doctor. I hope they will pass i dont want to have to take him the medicine it does really help. Any other question please ask.

They have sublingual melatonin in a range of flavors- try looking for that instead :thumbsup2

why wouldn't the patch stick correctly? I use a transdermal patch (Emsam, it's an amazing new MAOI) that stays on for 24 hours and I shower and swim and everything with it and it sticks fine... Once in awhile (talking once a month if that) I have a problem with irritation if I put it in a "bad spot"

[Miss Jessr!ca]

im 16, a junior in HS and i HAVE to take adderall.
if i dont i fall asleep, and cant focus.
i like it because it does help.

it really stinks though because your body will start to get used to it and then you have to take more and more.
like me..im at 60mg (which is the max) and im getting it uped soon, so ill have to start taking multiple pills

when i dont take it..its a whole nother story
im up all night
i get angry
i cant focus no matter how hard i try.

so its really a win lose situation.
it helps..but its bad for you

[JoiseyMom]

Well, we are about to try a third drug for DS5. The Daytrana did nothing, we have had him on Strattera for over a month (we upped the doage 2 weeks ago), and still nothing. We just got a prescription for Focalin. The dr. wants him to take one in the morning, and keep 1 dose of Strattera in the afternoon. I hope this works.

[Florida_Mom]

Hi all...

I want to resurrect this thread because DS9 is going to start Daytrana tomorrow. After several years of OT for his sensory integration and tutoring for his dyslexia, we are now moving forward trying to help him with his ADD. The lack of focus wasn't as bad before, but in the last two months it has just increased dramatically -- DH and I have noticed it, DS has noticed it, his teachers have noticed it. So, I hope you all continue to post on this topic. Thank you!

[SueM in MN]

This is kind of an old thread that has been brought back to the top.
It looks like excellent information for our disABILITIES Community Board, so I am moving it there.

[BeckyScott]

We just started DS9 on Adderall 3 months ago- and he is on 15 mg so not quite "full-strength".

We were really really hesitant, after witnessing one nephew who they have completely overdosed on Strattera :sad2: (aka Zombie Boy), and our youngest DS w/ autism, who was on Concerta for a while and a very bad experience.

Anyway, what made me feel better, was our doctor told me- Look at it as a temporary thing. Not permanent. As DS gets older and matures, he will learn life skills/ coping skills for how to deal with the ADHD. He will understand more of what's going on with his body. The Adderall is there, for now, to help him.

My brother is ADHD, first diagnosed when he was in about 4th grade. This was "back in the day" when they called 'em Hyperactive and put 'em on Ritalin. ;) The Ritalin made him fall asleep at school, and my family attempted to Feingold him with no luck. So. He just "dealt". Looking back, he had a LOT of trouble in school, eventually dropped out, but there weren't the support services available that there are now. As he got older, he did learn how to deal with it. Got a good job where moving around was okay. Figured out how to focus when he needed to. And has been quite successful as an adult. So I can understand our dr's point, and that made me feel alot better.

[PrincessMom2002]

Hi all...

I want to resurrect this thread because DS9 is going to start Daytrana tomorrow. After several years of OT for his sensory integration and tutoring for his dyslexia, we are now moving forward trying to help him with his ADD. The lack of focus wasn't as bad before, but in the last two months it has just increased dramatically -- DH and I have noticed it, DS has noticed it, his teachers have noticed it. So, I hope you all continue to post on this topic. Thank you!

Florida Mom-Good luck with the Daytrana. As I posted earlier in the thread, we started DS7 on the 10mg patch on 12/9/06. He was on that dosage for a month and overall the changes we saw were not very noticeable. His school work did not improve. So his ped. upped his dosage to 20mg in Jan. The higher dosage caused major anxiety and depressive issues for DS. He's been off now for almost a month. He had the full-blown eval in Jan. with the school system to see if he qualified for special services. He does and just started his IEP two weeks ago. The anxiety/depression really came to light during the course of the evaluation. I was not aware how bad it was until I was on vacation in early Feb. so spending alot of time with DS. He had almost constant headaches and stomach aches as well. He was NOT himself, personality-wise. We decided the side effects were overshadowing any benefit he got. We did see an improvement with his school work but I wanted my happy kid back!! So for the time being he is back to med-free. But he's his old smiley self and he's actually doing OK in school, better than before the meds. I think the IEP helps alot. I hoped the patch would work for him because he can't swallow pills yet. (we unsuccessfully tried Concerta) Even though the patch is not the answer for my DS, I would highly recommend it. Overall we found it very easy to apply and take off. We used tweezers to get the backing off. It did leave a bright red mark but we would slather the area in vaseline, so it didn't bother him. Let us know how it works out.

[letsgodisney]

This is all just SO confusing for me! I really don't know which avenue to take.

We have been taking him to Schneider's Children's Hospital for 2 years. They have a BEHAVIORAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DIVISION that is supposedly the best in New York. As of our last appointment, the psychologist said she thought meds would be a good idea. I said "No" at that point, because I at least wanted to wait until he started Kindergarten. I wanted to see how he would do in school.

He is in an INCLUSION class, but does not have an "AID" specifically for him. I think I need to request another CSE meeting and request a bunch of stuff...we had our last meeting in June. I want them to approve an AID for him, if they feel that will help. Right now, there is a full time teacher and a full time assistant in the class and the assistant is basically spending ALL of her time with my son. He needs CONSTANT supervision. He also spends 20-25 minutes in the Resource Room with two other kids. He does seem to do better with fewer children around (his class has 22 kids and I think it is WAY too much stimulation for him!) In addition to the AID I would like to get, I would also like them to recommend and supply BEHAVIORAL therapy, possibly in a group setting. I just started taking him to a Social Worker/Psychologist (or Psychotherapist...not sure of her exact title) but it's one on one and she doesn't only deal with kids, she deals with all people, all issues. But she has had her share of ADHD kids. I would ALSO love to get some Behavioral Therapy for MYSELF! I am at wits end here, and I feel like I am just yelling all the time and it's not helping ANYONE.

*sigh* I am just so lost. Thanks for all the replies, I do appreciate it.


Just had to drop you a note, We too have been going to Schneiders Childrens for the better part of 4 years. we now see a Neurologist. My DS has ADHD, OCD and was generally diagnosed with PDDNOS which of course means nothing. We have tried every kind of med and I am sick about the whole thing. One works then it stops then anxieity increases then we up that med and so on and so on. NOw we are about to stop it all to see how that goes, I have read this board and am interested in Tenex or possible Focalin I can't believe we have not tried them. My son is a sweet wonderful boy who has a very high anxiety level which contributes to his not paying attention. SO I understand just how you feel Thanks and best of luck to you, PM me if i CAN HELP......

[DisneyDiva13]

My son is also ADHD. We tried Adderall XR which was AWFUL for him (he went into a rage when he was coming "down" from it). Doc switched him to Focalin XR and it's been really good. He's himself...just calmer and more focused. His grades have improved and his reading skills are SO much better than before the meds. It was SUCH a hard decision for us to put him on meds. We tried so many other things first but they just did not work. So far, Focalin XR has been a godsend. He goes for a checkup soon and I think he may need a slightly higer dose (it seems to be wearing off sooner than it should), but other than that things are great. Good luck!

[DisneyDiva13]

My DS(8) was diagnosed at 5 with ADHD, He is unable to swallow pills so we could not medicate him. This year we started using the Patch it is called Datrana. All I can say it what a difference. He is doing so much better in school no more fighting to do homework. Weekends are not as stressful.
FYI...Adderall XR and Focalin XR (and maybe a few others) capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on yogurt or pudding. That way you don't have to worry about the whole pill swallowing thing. In case you are ever looking for an alternative to the patch.

[Slakk]

Wow I am so glad I hopped on over here! We have been struggling with my son for years. He had chronic ear infections as a child which caused him to not hear correctly which in turn became delayed speech. Two years of privately funded speech then into the school system. Last year we had a wonderful teacher with an LD child and he went from 2 hrs of Special Ed to full inclusion - this year (3rd grade) has been a nightmare.

We just converted from LD to ADD (no hyper here just inattentive) and are now trying to muddle our way through. This summer we are going to work with a behaviorist to work on fucusing issues (he is fine one on one just not in a classroom) and have decided to try Focasil as well.

My son HATES medicine but when I broached the subject he was so excited that it may help him not daydream - it just broke my heart that a little guy who won't take an asprin is willing to take medication to try and stop his mind from whirling.

We are agonizing over this - I always try not to use meds lightly but I am hoping that some dramatic IEP changes and some other things we are going to try will be beneficial - more so then meds.

To see people struggle with this as I am actually makes me feel good - I think we all want what is best for our kids. I am lucky too that my school is really trying to help us out with this and work with us but it is such a struggle....

Wish us luck we are going to try it on Saturday to see how it goes...

[PrincessMom2002]

Wow I am so glad I hopped on over here! We have been struggling with my son for years. He had chronic ear infections as a child which caused him to not hear correctly which in turn became delayed speech. Two years of privately funded speech then into the school system. Last year we had a wonderful teacher with an LD child and he went from 2 hrs of Special Ed to full inclusion - this year (3rd grade) has been a nightmare.

We just converted from LD to ADD (no hyper here just inattentive) and are now trying to muddle our way through. This summer we are going to work with a behaviorist to work on fucusing issues (he is fine one on one just not in a classroom) and have decided to try Focasil as well.

My son HATES medicine but when I broached the subject he was so excited that it may help him not daydream - it just broke my heart that a little guy who won't take an asprin is willing to take medication to try and stop his mind from whirling.

We are agonizing over this - I always try not to use meds lightly but I am hoping that some dramatic IEP changes and some other things we are going to try will be beneficial - more so then meds.

To see people struggle with this as I am actually makes me feel good - I think we all want what is best for our kids. I am lucky too that my school is really trying to help us out with this and work with us but it is such a struggle....

Wish us luck we are going to try it on Saturday to see how it goes...

The best of luck to you and your son! This is a very tough road to be on. :hug:

[SueM in MN]

FYI...Adderall XR and Focalin XR (and maybe a few others) capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on yogurt or pudding. That way you don't have to worry about the whole pill swallowing thing. In case you are ever looking for an alternative to the patch.
My nephew takes his with vanilla ice cream.
Luckily, when he came with us to WDW, we were staying at OKW, so we had a refrigerator with a freezer. I would not want to have to explain why we had a medical need for a freezer.;)

[LOLA2]

Wow I am so glad I hopped on over here! We have been struggling with my son for years. He had chronic ear infections as a child which caused him to not hear correctly which in turn became delayed speech. Two years of privately funded speech then into the school system. Last year we had a wonderful teacher with an LD child and he went from 2 hrs of Special Ed to full inclusion - this year (3rd grade) has been a nightmare.

We just converted from LD to ADD (no hyper here just inattentive) and are now trying to muddle our way through. This summer we are going to work with a behaviorist to work on fucusing issues (he is fine one on one just not in a classroom) and have decided to try Focasil as well.

My son HATES medicine but when I broached the subject he was so excited that it may help him not daydream - it just broke my heart that a little guy who won't take an asprin is willing to take medication to try and stop his mind from whirling.

We are agonizing over this - I always try not to use meds lightly but I am hoping that some dramatic IEP changes and some other things we are going to try will be beneficial - more so then meds.

To see people struggle with this as I am actually makes me feel good - I think we all want what is best for our kids. I am lucky too that my school is really trying to help us out with this and work with us but it is such a struggle....

Wish us luck we are going to try it on Saturday to see how it goes...

Hi there, my son takes Focalin XR for his ADHD and my 11 yo daughter takes the same for ADD (inattentive type) I just sprinkle it on a spoonful of applesauce in the morning and the we are done for the day. I can see alot of improvement for my son between the hours of 8-4 but then it starts wearing off. So I will be talking to doc about that bercause it is like a switch goes off. Angel one minute, then the next :eek: He also does not eat much during the day (this is one of the side effect for some of the kids) but is ravenous from 5-9 eats about every 1/2 hour. You habe to just let them in these instances. My daughter on the other hand eats fine during the day. You can also tell not as much if it is helping since she is not hyper the changes are more with focusing. The teacher says she can see the difference when she is on it.

If you have any questions let me know. They are both on 10 mg.

[Slakk]

Hi there, my son takes Focalin XR for his ADHD and my 11 yo daughter takes the same for ADD (inattentive type) I just sprinkle it on a spoonful of applesauce in the morning and the we are done for the day. I can see alot of improvement for my son between the hours of 8-4 but then it starts wearing off. So I will be talking to doc about that bercause it is like a switch goes off. Angel one minute, then the next :eek: He also does not eat much during the day (this is one of the side effect for some of the kids) but is ravenous from 5-9 eats about every 1/2 hour. You habe to just let them in these instances. My daughter on the other hand eats fine during the day. You can also tell not as much if it is helping since she is not hyper the changes are more with focusing. The teacher says she can see the difference when she is on it.

If you have any questions let me know. They are both on 10 mg.

Thank you to everyone for the advice. We tried the Focalin on Saturday - put it in vanilla ice cream then had DS sprinkle some *magic sprinkles* (store bought sprinkles on it and it was in (this is the child who refuses any and all medication.

Interestingly he was a chatterbox all day - he usually talks a lot but this was a ton. What was the change is the detailed discussion he had with us about everything. He said he felt like he could describe better and his brain was really clear.

He ate like a pig all day and was so sweet. He also informed me he did not hate waiting anymore (we were at a restaurant and service was slow) The best part was a boy from his class was at the restaurant and DS actually went up to him and played for a while - DS has never done this (he has socialization issues) He also wanted to read last night and informed me he felt like he could do homework

Today we did not take it and he said he can feel a difference. He is not as chatty and not interested in reading. I am still on the fence until next week when he is in school but I did see a difference and more importantly he said he felt great.

Crossing my fingers!

[wvdislover]

Hi there, my son takes Focalin XR for his ADHD and my 11 yo daughter takes the same for ADD (inattentive type) I just sprinkle it on a spoonful of applesauce in the morning and the we are done for the day. I can see alot of improvement for my son between the hours of 8-4 but then it starts wearing off. So I will be talking to doc about that bercause it is like a switch goes off. Angel one minute, then the next :eek: He also does not eat much during the day (this is one of the side effect for some of the kids) but is ravenous from 5-9 eats about every 1/2 hour. You habe to just let them in these instances. My daughter on the other hand eats fine during the day. You can also tell not as much if it is helping since she is not hyper the changes are more with focusing. The teacher says she can see the difference when she is on it.

If you have any questions let me know. They are both on 10 mg.

My DD9 is also on Focalin XR (20mg). Hers, too, wears off around 4 in the afternoon. She then takes 10mg of short-acting Ritalin to get through homework and the rest of the evening (lasts about 4 hours). She also takes 25mg of Strattera with the Ritalin, which helps with her impulsivity, and it has also greatly reduced the rebounding effect. Maybe you could talk to your ped. about adding an afternoon dose of the Ritalin. Good luck!

[crazykids]

We just started giving our DS (age 4 1/2) meds for the first time. Dr. prescribed chlonodine 2 x day & I have yet to notice any kid of difference. He's been on this about 3 weeks now, has anyone else experienced this happening? It was so hard for me to try meds & now they're not even working!

He is so impulsive & opositional that I really can't take him out anymore. He just won't listen to anything anyone tells him & I don't know what else to do. He is such a sweet boy when he isn't acting out & I just wish he could stay like that all of the time.