Should we change medication?

[BCADHD]

hello!

my son is 8 and was diagnosed with ADHD earlier this year. We’ve been working with his paediatrician and school to help support him. I am really unsure if his current medication is working, which I know sounds weird, but im not sure what the expectations should be. He started on Biphentin, which was helpful in keeping him focused in school, listening and generally being a bit more cooperative. But, it didn’t last long enough and he’d melt down by 4pm. We switched to Concerta as a longer lasting option, but it was terrible. He had rage outbursts every day. So, the doctor switched him back to Biphentin.

We still struggle with some anger each day, the ability to stay calm in the face of minor challenges. We definitely still have to walk on eggshells often. He also still struggles with controlling his body and constantly wanting to wrestle with his little brother.

I realize medication doesn’t ‘fix’ everything, but should I be expecting more? I read on here people have great success with the right meds. Should we explore something else?

[Onthemove1971]

I recommend your son seeing a child psychiatrist. They specialize in : best type of medication( there are stimulanta and non-stimulants), best timing ( some medication can be long acting and some wven 24 hour) to give medication and know the best dose ( there is a wide range of medication)

We were told medication can decrease thr symptoms by 60% and the other % is behavior support, parent training and the 504 plan.

Best of luck, you will know when it is right.

[BCADHD in reply to Onthemove1971]

thank you! This is great to know.

[Imakecutebabies]

My son's psychiatrist recommended a non-stimulant for him because we needed to address the emotional dysregulation more than the lack of focus. I think eventually we'll need to add in a stimulant for focus but right now he's in first grade and the control of his behavior matters more. We started him over the summer and have gotten no complaints from the school yet this year, versus daily complaints last year. You should talk with a psychiatrist to see what they suggest for your son's specific areas of weakness.

[MommaofandwithADHD in reply to Imakecutebabies]

Thank you! I am in a fight with my child’s Dr right now to switch from a stimulant to address these other things 1st.

[Imakecutebabies in reply to MommaofandwithADHD]

Good luck! If the doctor isn't on board, try meeting with a psychiatrist instead.

[MommaofandwithADHD in reply to Imakecutebabies]

the doctor pretty much told me that I don’t know what I am talking about and she won’t change it. Called a Dr yesterday to see if they will see us. If not I will be looking elsewhere for sure.

[BCADHD in reply to Imakecutebabies]

thank you! I’m going to look into making that switch. I definitely agree, emotional regulation is more of a priority for us at the moment than focus.