METADATE | ADHD Information

I read that too.. but I think most methylphenidate meds will say that. My daughter was 5 when she was started on Metadate CD. I honestly don't think a year makes a difference and if a Dr prescribes it then it's fine because that's what they think is best. My daughter couldn't handle Metadate CD's delivery, but the reason the Dr tried that one is because the lowest dose is 10mg.. and Concerta the lowest dose is 18mg and being 5 years old she (the Dr) did not want to start that high of a dose with my daughter. It's also a tiny capsule that's easier for a child to swallow. She's now taking short acting Ritalin 5mgs twice a day (am and noon).  I have a 5 year old - the doc prescribed Metadate (this will be his first
trial) - I 'googled' it and read this:

'This drug should not be given to children under 6 years of age; safety
and effectiveness in this age group have not been established.'

Is this true? Anyone else familiar with this med?

Thanks
Wendi

The methylphenidate meds (ritalin, concerta, daytrana, metadate, etc.) were originally only tested in ages 6 - 17. Use in younger populations or adults is "off label". Any doc can prescribe off label; this is the practice of medicine. There are current trials for both preschoolers and adults being done on some of the formulations of methylphenidate so that the companies can change the labelling.

The meds that are approved for younger kids 3 years and above include the amphetamine based meds like adderall. Many docs try with the methylphenidates before moving to the amphetamine based meds. It is a matter of thier experiences with the different meds thoughout thier medical career.

What kind of doc is managing the meds? It is hard to get all the info you need during a doctor's visit.

 

Great t-shirt! My daughter quite often starts a new topic out of nowhere (and we have chickens) so that is often the subject, I'd love it .Ah thanks

Vickie - it is his pediatrician that preseribed metadate. Ive no idea about
his experience.

I wan't able to go to the doc visit ( my husband took him) but I was told
that the pediatrician asked my son to repeat after him - and he said
1,2 3. My son slowly said 1......2......"Hey guess what?"... and he started
ramblin on about something with 2 and hopping. Never quite made it to
'3'

There is a T shirt that says...

I have been told I have ADHD, but I don't...Hey look a chicken.

Many pediatricians are fine with treating straight ADHD. If finding the right med becomes difficult, or if other conditions start showing up (anxiety, etc) you may need to move to a psychiatrist for med management.