The Medication Game

[Wiola821]

My son was diagnosed with ADHD about 8 months ago. Since than we have been trying to find medication that can help him. He's currently on Intuniv and that helps his hyperactivity. However, to help him at school we tried Focalin, Adderall and Vyvance with varying dosage. On all three he became extremely moody, depressed and angry. The Intuniv does a great job with the hyperactivity but we need something to help him with his focus as he's struggling academically. Any thoughts?

[Grandma01]

My grandson was on Concerta 18 mg tab for about three weeks. His behavior has changed and I wondering if that has anything to do with the addition of a weighted vest, sensory breaks and other modifications at school. I have heard very little about the children on Concerta and this was our first medication. I'm thinking have your dr. do a full scale blood work up (I forgot what the test is called at the moment) to find the right medication, do hearing and vision test, rule out problem with those issues.

Concerta

[willandgrace]

There are two kinds of stimulant medications. I think that Adderall and Vyvanse are of the same kind. I'm not sure about Focalin. Maybe you can try a medication from the other group. But my daughter went through two meds before we found one that works. I was really worried that nothing would work, but Vyvanse ended up working for her - so don't give up. Maybe try Concerta. Many people tell me that works well for their children. Don't give up. Just keep going until you find the right medicine. Do all the reading you can on medication - there is a lot out there. ADDitude Magazine (online) is a great resource.

[Elijah1]

Why did he become moody and angry on the medications? Does he have more than ADHD? If the behavior changes occurred while the medicines were in him, could he also have anxiety?

[Wiola821 in reply to Elijah1]

He has some anxiety due to stress from school work. But, the medications change his personality.