[QUOTE=mom0611]Is 15 mg really considered a large dose?? We were actually thinking of going up to 20... [/QUOTE]
Our developmental pediatrician told us that, in FDA studies, the most effective dose for most children ages 6-12 was 34 mg (or something close to that. In clinical trials, they try different doses that vary by as little as 1 mg). My child recently increased to 40 mg, though I think it's FDA approved only to 35 mg.
By the way, the developmental ped. said that the pharmaceutical co. will start making capsules higher than 20 mg. I would love to give him only one capsule because we pay per capsule. The joys of insurance -- NOT!
Finally, Happy Passover to you! I'm also Jewish. Are you sick of matzah yet? I'm looking forward to regular food.
I would be upset, but it is a holiday weekend. Any chance of a med break for the holiday? or possibly only using what you have for Monday? 15mg Focalin is a large dose, but 10 is not all that much less.Thanks for helping keep things in perspective. I know it is a holiday weekend, even though we are Jewish, so I guess for me, I am not feeling the impact of that. Is 15 mg really considered a large dose?? We were actually thinking of going up to 20... I actually just called my regualer pediatrician (left a message) to see if I can get the one pill I need for tomorrow so ds could have his 15 mg tomorrow. He has a test at school and I want to see if this dosage helps him. Thanks -Also if you are not happy with the doctor by all means look around and switch again. Sometimes you get lucky and sometimes it takes a few before you are satisfied. This is what I did ask around from friends and co-workers that is how I found my childs doctor and allergist. Good luck Jill Yes, Friday was Good Friday, so they may have had the day off anyway. I know it's hard to juggle everything, but maybe you should get a pill box that has 7 compartments to help keep yourself organized about how many meds you have so you can notify your doc early enough for a refill before the pills run out. For us, we call the nurse and leave a message, and she calls me back to say the scrip is ready for pickup. Then I take it to the pharmacy to be filled. I think it's too soon to write this doc off--stick with her a little while longer and see how it goes. Good Luck!I'm going to play devil's advocate here.
First.... I can understand your frustration completely. We've been thru many many meds and/or doseage adjustments over the years and it is nerve racking for any parent.
I'm not sure i would burn this bridge just yet with this doctor. For one thing, the mere fact that she is willing to communicate with you via email is phenomenal in my book. I've NEVER had a doctor willing to do this! The fact that she is slower to respond to you may just be an indication that she is busy with other patients, etc. Email.....as you know, always has the effect of "immediacy" for the sender. Once you hit that "send" button.....you tend to think "OK....I've said what I need to say...now it's in HER court and she needs to respond ASAP." Unfortunately, if she has a busy practice, that may not be practical. But the sheer fact she allows this form of communication, she should expect that parents, especially parents of children who have behavioral issues, will need extra support...and they will expect it. Her office staff should have been instructed to be sensitive to this and help her screen emails quickly.
About the focalin....... are you talking about short acting, or extended? Someone mentioned capsules. My son takes 30 mg of short acting focalin in the pm to help him get thru homework. His are white tablets....he takes 3 10 mg tablets.
I have had to over the years become an expert in managing these multiple prescriptions my son takes. I use pill organizers and have devoted one whole kitchen drawer with an organizer insert to his meds. I make sure I order refills with plenty of time because I use mail order to save money. It took awhile to get it down smooth without running out.....which is always a nightmare!
Okiemom
okiemom39180.777037037I got the one 5 mg capsule I needed for tomorrow from my pediatrician's office calling it in for me. The psychiatrist has left me hanging since yesterday evening. So I paid .00 for the one pill! Anyway, it is good to know that it is safe to go up to 35 or 40 mg. I think we will end up going up to 20 mg this week. Hopefully I'll get my prescription tomorrow from the psychaitrist who didn't seem to give a ---- that I needed a pill for tomorrow morning. Oh well. It is the end of the day and I am exhausted and not quite as angry as I was this morning. I think sticking to matzah the whole week would have really put me over the edge, so I give you credit for staying with it! Happy Easter and Passover to all -Me again... just realized there were more replies posted and I want to thank you guys for your help. As I said, I am less angry now and never ended up writing an angry e-mail to the doctor. I think you are right... I will stick it out with her and see if things get better. It is unusual that she allows communication via e-mail. I'm sure there is no one perfect doctor. There will be flaws (they are human too) and I understand that. I do have another name though, just in case I do need to make a switch. I talked to a neighbor today who loves her doctor. Also, thanks for the advice regarding the pill organizer. I am new to this and the dosage isn't set yet, so all your input is very helpful. Thanks!That sounds like a great approach mom0611. And you are not alone..... us more seasoned parents have been on the med roller coaster many years, and we realize it is very scary and tricky for parents new to this. Remember.....it will not be unusual to adjust meds several times over the years, or even switch meds. This ADHD thing is a journey.....and no med will ever be a quick fix.
Okiemom