Questions posted in the
Child Behavioral Health Forum
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Dr. Kevin Kennedy of Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates. | |
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Subject: Re: Dexadrine Topic Area: Child Disipline (behavior management)Posted by Beth B. on June 29, 1999 at 18:24:14My 12 year-old was just diagnosed with ADHD and ODD. The doctor put him on Dexadrine - 10mg. a once a day.It's been two weeks now, and I haven't noticed a dramatic change. He is still forgetful, withdrawn, and messy. I DO notice he is a bit friendlier, and a little more comfortable in social situations. The doctor thinks I need to give it more time, but has told me, too, that changes should occur right away. Also, I'm worried about him becoming even more depressed, and whether or not this is the right medication. If it is, is it possible that his dosage is too low? He hit puberty last year, and is a big kid for his age (5'5"). Thanks.
Posted by HVM Ph.D. - KDK on June 30, 1999 at 07:27:22 Dear Beth B., Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine sulfate) is an often-prescribed stimulant medication for the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is supplied in two forms: a tablet, the effects of which last for approximately 4 hours; and spansules, the effects of which last for 10-12 hours. It is always recommended that such medications be prescribed at the lowest effective dose, and your doctor is prescribing in a careful fashion. Particularly when spansules are prescribed, once-daily dosing is common, and I'm assuming your son is taking a spansule. Sometimes, even with spansules, augmentation with a Dexedrine tablet later on in the day is helpful. I'm assuming that your son weighs at least 100 pounds; if so, the starting dose of 10 mg. is fine. Try to be patient. A dramatic change is not really a realistic expectation, though sometimes people see a quick and obvious improvement, particularly when hyperactivity is a symptom. Improvement in attention may be a bit more difficult to discern, and requires more careful observation before reaching conclusions, especially if an increase in dose is considered. There's no need to rush to increase the dose. Regarding side effects, you might check out my June 24 response re: Ritalin and ADHD. In general, the side effect profiles of the stimulant medications are similar, so I won't reiterate them here - you'll see them in the June 24 reply. Depression or dysphoria can be a side effect of Dexedrine, but it is not viewed as a common side effect. You mentioned that your son displays Oppositional Defiant Disorder in addition to ADHD. Such children are usually not withdrawn - quite the opposite, actually. If your son is depressed, he may require an antidepressant - depressive symptoms won't be addressed by Dexedrine.
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