How do we know where to start?

[Mom at the cross roads]

Our son ,9 was diagnosed with environmental ADHD about 2 years ago. His symptoms seem to surface in large group environments like school. He is also socially anxious and has a low self esteem. After reducing food intolerances such a milk, caffeine etc. and fruit shakes with Omega 3, Vitamin B complexes etc. he stills needs more help. His pediatrician uses both concerta and adderall. we would like to also entertain strattera but may not be able to get it in Canada..We are actually opposed to using any drugs but his social issues lead us to see he needs more help thatn we alone can give him. How do we know which drug would be best?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

In general, the psychostimulant medications remain the front-line treatment for most patients who display ADHD. Some of the stimulants are methylphenidate products - Concerta is an example. Some of the stimulants are amphetamine products - Adderall is an example. Strattera is a non-stimulant. If hyperactivity is part of your son's profile, and there is no reason (e.g., poor response in the past, intolerable side effect, history of seizures) not to employ stimulants, it would be sensible to utilize either of the stimulants. If the symptoms influence your son's functioning at home as well as at school, one of the longer-acting preparations would make sense - examples are Concerta, Ritalin LA, Adderall XR.

[stinasmom]

Adderal was working very well with our son( when we got him to take it) He is age 14 and suddenly nothing is working

[Mom at the cross roads]

I will call our physicain today and go ahead with Adderall Rx.
I'll stay tuned and let you know how he is doing. Our first thought is a month trial to see him through the end of the school year. We are hoping to ensure it would be the best foot forward for next year. (aka September). Thanks ever so much for your support.

[marie72687]

MY 7 YEAR OLD SON HAS ADD/ADHD AND HE HAS A BAD TEMPER.AND YELLS. AND SOMETIMES HURTS THINGS THEN HE GETS SCARD AFTER HE HURTS THEM.WE ALL WALK ON EGG SHELLS .MY SONS HAS MOOD SWINGS.I'VE GOT ADD/ADHD TO.BUT MINE IS NOT AS BAD AS MY SONS.MY SON IS ON STRATTERA. BUT IT SEEMS LIKE ITS NOT WORKING .WHAT SHOULD WE DO?