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Child Behavior (Expert Forum)
How do we know where to start?
Answered by
Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D. - Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Crisis Intervention
Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
This forum is for questions and support regarding child behavior issues such: Child Discipline (behavior management), Normal Child Development, Parent-Child Communications, Social Development
How do we know where to start?
by Mom at the cross roads, May 24, 2004 12:00AM
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 (adderrall). 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?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D., May 25, 2004 12:00AM
, May 25, 2004 12:00AM
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 (adderrall) 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 (adderrall) XR.
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.