Does it make a difference skipping focalin xr over the weekends?

[kesonsmom]

My boyfriend's child is six with ADHD, he has been on Focalin XR 10mg for nearly a year. Just recently taking him for a check up, the doctor said it would be fine to skip the weekends to help get his weight back up. We just tried it out this weekend, his mom taking him Sunday. Today is Monday, the school calls saying he is bouncing off the walls like he hasn't had his medication, which she claims she gave it this morning. Has anyone noticed a difference of skipping the weekends, and starting back up the following Monday? Hope I don't sound too confusing and that I can get some feedback. We also have the regular Focalin 5 mg for after school, which we haven't started yet. I'm wondering if it is effecting him starting up again after missing two days, that we would do the 5mg in the afternoon on weekends, so at least the majority of the day he will do well with his meals, but still have it in his system. Any suggestions?

[Sandman2]

Very good points, Thankyou!

[lucky1gg]

My son takes Focalin XR and it does not build up in the system like other daily meds so skipping a dose should not be a big deal.  My son takes it for school because the stimulus of the classroom with 19 children is too much for him to control his ADHD. On weekends and non-school days, I do not give him the med (unless we are going to be doing something like attending a party with lots of activity). We have no issues with school unless I fail to give him the med... oh and once when he puked right after taking it. Also, I like not having him on it because it makes me realize that he still needs it. Even if we are home or in a quiet environment, I can tell a difference in Focalin vs no Focalin. Good Luck!

[Sandman2]

   Well, I would certainly try it at least one more time.  My first guess is that mom forgot to give him his meds.  I say that because all stimulants are out of the system fairly quickly.  XR's will last longer, but they still have the initial "hit".  
   I'm sorry, I should not have blamed mom.  She probably gave him the pill and he forgot to take it.  Point being, try it again when he is with you.  
  In response to your question about the weekends- it really depends if you can put up with him.  6 is a crazy age for a boy.  And putting it nicely - a 6 year old ADHD child is a handful.  It can be done, by keeping him really busy.   Structure is the key.  By the way, get the book,  "The ADD/ ADHD Answer book," by Susan Ashley.  lots of good helpful ideas in there.   As he gets older, you will find it easier to go without meds on the weekends.  
   Weight wise, have you tried any of the liquid drinks like "ensure" as snacks?

[randy231]

I have 2 boys on adhd meds. Niether of them take the one in your question. My guys dont have any problems with skipping weekends. The XR usually means time release so it may need time to get back in his system. Ask your pharmacist.