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Is a 35 point increase on IQ score normal after starting medication for ADHD

My son has had his IQ tested every year (ages 3,4,5,6), it has always been 65. He was diagnosed with severe ADHD and we started him on medication. He has now been on the medication for a year and his IQ was retested (now 7 years old) and his IQ is now 100.  I've always known he wasn't dumb, so I'm thrilled to see such a score, but is this normal for a young child to have such a large increase in their IQ score after starting ADHD medication?
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189897 tn?1441126518
COMMUNITY LEADER
  No definitely not a fluke.  I bet he will do even better next time.  If you remember - post back and tell us how he does.  I would love to know.  And, of course, if you need any info on ADHD - just whistle :)
Helpful - 0
189897 tn?1441126518
COMMUNITY LEADER
    It takes a very, very good psyc to get an accurate IQ score on someone with ADHD.  It is even more difficult with a young child.   The medication helps your child focus during the test - makes all the difference in the world!  I would also assume that your child will start making up for some lost time in school on reading and math - which should improve his scores even higher.
  Please let me know if you need any more info on kids with ADHD.  Best wishes.
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1 Comments
Thank you very much for your answer.  It's tough sometimes balancing between not expecting too much from your child and not expecting enough.  Your reply set my mind at ease that the score is probably not inflated.i realize that a score is just a score an it's not suppose to mean anything.  But when the IQ score is below 70 it changes a persons life.  They are labeled.  A few points difference can make the difference between receiving services or not.  My son still has a lot of obstacles to overcome, but thanks to his medication and a mom that never gives up he will be fine.  Thanks again for easing my mind that this score wasn't a fluke.
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