daughter started Ritalin today

[lorilee590]

my 9 year old daughter started Ritalin today and I am super stressed....how has this medication worked out for y'all?

[TomNRachel]

My son is 6 years old and has been on Ritalin for 1 year. During school the medication helps control his impulses and behavior. After school the medication wears off and the behaviors come back full force. He has lost weight due to the medication, its an appetite suppressant. I recommend that over the weekends give half a dose or no dose if you can handle it. That way your child can eat a few good meals.

[tpetro830 in reply to TomNRachel]

My son is 9 and has been taking Ritalin for 3 yrs. it is like and day. He has excelled in school and his confidence has returned. Without the medicine he could spell his name wrong. He doesn’t eat much of a lunch but he tries to eat at least a yogurt. He makes up for it in the evening and on weekends when we also give 1/2 dose. He did lose a little weight at first but now he’s evened off and hes right where he needs to be.

[Lostmama]

My 6yr old son has been on it for about 2 months now and I have seen such a positive change. It does not suppress his appetite or keep him from his sleep. He takes 10mg 2x/day and by the time school is out it wears off which is fine because I can handle him at home. Don't stress out, just make sure you communicate with your daughters teacher to see how the medication affects her.

[ucandoit]

Don't stress yourself. Atleast you are doing SOMETHING. Dosage can be adjusted if any problems or if it's not working after giving it a little bit try Focalin. You know your child. Trust your judgment. Best of luck to you.

[Rosy2017]

My son was taking extended release ritalin and didnt like it he was always sleeping not eating much didnt feel good when running so psych. Just Changed it to two pills a day one am before going to school and another in lunch time he says he feels better. Hes starting second pill this comming week. Hes only been on medicine for 4months.Best of luck