ADHD Meds & Sports

[Nylim]

Hello, does anyone have any insight on the best timing for adhd medications in relation to exercise or sports. For example, a child taking long-acting dexmethylphenidate for school and has track practice or basketball in the late afternoon. How soon before practice would you give a dose of short-acting dexmethylphenidate or is there a special medication that can help them to focus without interfering with their sports performance (e.g. making them tired) or disrupting bedtime, which is soon after practice.

[Mamamichl]

stimulant medications are supposed to be given first thing in the morning. Depending on the medication, you may need a booster around lunch. My partner burns through his quickly so he needs the booster. Long acting is supposed to work 24 hours, but some people burn through it quickly and it stops working in the afternoon, while others it keeps them up at night no matter what. The immediate release usually works about 4 hours, but again, it depends on the person,