My son was diagnosed in late in 7th grade. He spent one full day/ 8 hours with a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist and we receive a report that included all educational testing. No other issues or comorbidity. Moderate AHDH predominately inattentive. Never thought or know about ADHD. Anyway, I spent the first month learning everything I could we worked with a ADHD Phcy that prescribed Vyvanse. During this time the doc would use the TOVA test to see if the stimulate was working. I never felt this was the best way but I was learning. I didn't think we have found the best med for him, so I asked this doc if we could try Concerta and he said it was to strong for him but then later he said he didn't use it in his practice We have since changed doctors. We stayed with Vyvanse but I just asked our new doc to trail Concerta. I am considering this because Vyyanse is in the amphetamine class and Concerta is the methamphetamine. i have read a lot here where many of you have tried one class and then another
I know each kiddo is different but I would like to know those who have experience with Concerta AND the kiddo is predominately inattentive
Does Concert help more with focus?
He also takes a long-acting Intiniv at night
Thanks in advance for your advice
Hello and welcome to the group!
My son is 12 and takes Concerta 36 mg (slow release) at 8 am every morning and the effects last him about 8 hours. My son is in attentive and hyperactive. This medicine has been a game changer. He is able to focus and do very well at school and it lasts most days enough to finish his homework. He also takes a booster in the afternoons, for sports or a social activity, it is also to help him focus but it mainly helps with his hyperactivity and impulsiveness. We notice that it truly helps him keeping and making friends. The impulsiveness and hyperactivity make it hard to socialize.
He was diagnosed at 8 and at that time his pediatrician prescribed Aderall. A Year later we decided to treat his ADHD at the neurologist, they did some testing and recommended the change in medicine.
I have also researched and studied ADHD since he was diagnosed, and still do. I wanted to be sure that medicine was the way to go, as many parents I felt guilty. I truly believe he has a better life with the medicine and a brighter future.
Thank you. Do you recall the name or type of test the neurologist ordered to determine the best medication for your son?
Not sure what it is called. The neurologist sat him in front of a computer for about 10 - 15 minutes while on his previous medicine. He did the steps and then she showed me how much he had moved and struggled to keep focus. So then she recommended Concerta. My son said at the time that he could not notice the difference from either medicine, he felt that both worked. He is very eloquent and could tell a huge difference from before medicine and after.