questions

My son (7) was recently diagnosed as having adhd.  I've been doing my research about the condition and am trying everything I can think of to help him cope.  First the doctor put him on Adderoll 5mg but he began having these severe ups and downs-one minute he was fine and the next he was going crazy-manic attacks the doctor said.  So we took him off the Adderoll and now he's on FocalinXR 5mg.  It seems to help but leaves so very much to be desired.  He's calmer, a little easier to manage but still the same behavior that inspired me to look in to his mental condition remain.  Homework is nearly impossible to complete without some crying, arguing and carrying on.  It generally takes at least 2 hours, he's absolutely failing in school and still being vindictive and tormenting to most everyone around him.  My biggest consern is the safety of his 3 year old sister.  When he first started taking the Focalin it seemed to work great but now it doesn't seem to be having as much effect.  Is he building up a tollerance to it?  I don't want to increase his dosage because I'm terrified of all the "possible" side effects.  He's only 7-I shouldn't have to be trying to figure out when I can schedule in an EKG to make sure he's okay.  

[LRM1021]

Your son is taking medication, and it does not sound like its having the desired effect on him. If you are still concerned for the safety of his siblings, then this medication at its current dosage is not working for you. You need to go back to the prescribing physician and advise him of your son's status, so that the dr knows that your son is still suffering -- and it sounds like he is suffering a lot (along with you as his Mom!)

I understand concerns about side effects-- and I agree with you. But the point of medication for ADHD is to achieve the most benefit with the least possible side effects. Right now, you are describing very little benefit-- which to me, makes it the wrong medication and/or dosage. It would be one thing if it was working great, but had side effects that concerned you. This is not even working great -- so I would say things need to be adjusted.

[bumbunch]

I would have to say that I agree. When my daughter was first diagnosed with adhd we went through lots of testing and several different meds and dosages. She has been on almost everything, with not much progress, and lots of side effects. We are seriously worried for her health and her soul, so we are looking at trying other things versus medications.

[Mommy3Girls]

My 7 yuear old daughter is on Concerta. It helps tremendously with her. We are working on mild behavior conditions with her,but have her in counseling and are taking  a great parenting class through teh center she goes to. It is all making a difference slowly but surely. You may want to check with the doc about a different drug and seek some counseling. Maybe the doc could refer you for the severe bahivior. Oh, our daughter was also diagnosed ODD. Oppositional Defiant Disorder. That comes quite often with ADD or ADHD.  Talk to the doc and see what he/she says about it. Good luck to you. I know it is very very difficult t o handle. Especially having other siblings.