Exasperated Parent | ADHD Information

Help! I am new to these boards and a parent of a 14 year old son with ADD and chronic tic syndrome.  My son was worked up for Touretts syndrome 4 years ago however does not meet criteria for Tourettes only chronic tic syndrome.  His tics have waxed and waned over the past few years but nothing harmful to him or inappropriate.  He was seen by a pediatric neurologist and prescribed Haldol and Prozac.  I chose not to fill the prescription and the tic behavior has been under control without affecting his daily living.  However, recently he has had multiple behavior problems at school and his pediatrician said he has ADD.  She prescribed Straterra.  She did not want to prescribe any of the stimulants due to his chronic tic syndrome as the stimulant meds could possibly increase his tic behaviors. Again I chose not to fill the precription.  This was 4 months ago.  I have spent an enormous amount of time researching and reading info regarding ADD and whether or not to medicate.  I am still resistant to medication.  However I have reached the point of desperation.  THe last 4 months have been hell.  He continues to have behavioral problems at school.  He is disruptive in class with excessive talking, rude to teachers. demanding in his tone, highly disorganized and forgets simple tasks.  He has mood swings.  One day he is charming the next rude and angry.  I chalked this up to hormonal changes as a result of adolescence.  I am sure I have been in denial of this diagnosis.  He has now reaached the point where he is being isolated from the lunch room due to his uncontrollable behavior-has lunch with the principal and is in trouble most of the time at school.  We have tried consequences without success.  My son is very bright and gifted as he is only in 8th grade and attends the high school for math and english classes.  He has always been a grade ahead in his class, tests extremely high on standardized testing, a talented pianist but can't remember to turn in homework, organizes his class assignments and control his impulsivity.  I am looking for answers and trying to make an informed decision about medication at this point.  THere is so much info out there it is difficult to process at this time.  We are currently trying a homeopathic remedy but so far it has been unsuccessful.  Any comments or direction would be appreciated?

First, I would consider having him tested by a neuropsychologist. Then, I would go to the alternatives section of the boards here and read up on that.

I think there is good chance that omegas will help him in the behavior area. There are many supplements available and reading about them will help immensely when you try to find ways to work with him without using meds, which is what you seem to prefer.

I do have to say though, that meds are not necessarily bad. They have helped many children live a more normal life, which is what we are all aiming for.

Have you talked to him?

I have ADD, non-hyperactive so I don't have real experience with it other than what I've read and observed, but really, I think, a lot of kids with ADHD are disruptive or impulsive without really meaning or wanting to be. There's this kid Matt on this site, you may want to talk to him. His screenname's Matt08. He explained his story in the topic after this one. He may be able to help you understand how your son is really feeling and not just what he's doing.Marley2436538777.527974537