All medications are slightly different and all kids are different. Thus what works for one may not work for another. Essentially, the extended release versions tend to be smoother.
All docs should start him out on the lowest dose (if he is young) and monitor the results. It is very important that you keep in contact with the doctor and let him/her know what is going on. Don't just start the meds and figure all is well. It really is a trial and error process to see what works best. Its also a good idea to actively involve his teacher so you can determine how long the medication is effective.
I also suggest you buy the book, "The ADD/ ADHD Answer book," by Susan Ashley. Its about $10 on Amazon. It will answer a lot of your future questions as well as explain things like 504 plans, etc.
Please post if you have any more questions.
Thanks for your anwser. This next week i will meet with the pediatritian and the school principal and his terapist, im scare to put him on meds but a lot of people had told me that will work better for him, he is only 10, and very worry about making him dependant of meds to have a life. Already have a daughter that is bipolar and her life is only meds and doctors from the last 6 years.
While ADHD symptoms can look like bipolar, it is different then bipolar. And the meds used are different. Once you are out of school and don't need to concentrate as much, its very possible to drop the meds (a lot of adults do), or only use them as necessary. Do get the book I recommended. It will be very helpful. It also has a great section on 504 plans which will help him at school. Please post if you have any more questions. Best wishes.