My child began Metadate CD less than a week ago. Maybe it's because he's still on a low dose (he's working his way up slowly), but I'm noticing that it's taking a lot longer to start helping him than it used to take with the Focalin XR. With the Focalin XR, his behavior changed enormously in 20-30 minutes. Metadate CD seems to take 1-1.5 hours. Maybe this'll change once he's on a higher dose, but I'm wondering about other people's experiences with how long after taking Metadate CD that they start noticing it's working.
I have 2 boys (16 &17) who have been taking Metadate CD for a few years and I think it takes about 20 min. to start. They take the 20mg and we have tried the 30 mg for a little while but it was stronger than we needed. One child takes the 20 and then we got Ritalin 5mg for some afternoons when he had a big homework load and the Medatae had worn off. The thing I like best about Metadate is that it doesn't have hardly any side effects for my 2. We have tried Concerta, Adderall & Ritalin. Metadate doesn't make thier personalities disappear. They don't have that a problem at the end of the day when it wears off, no sleep issues or eating issues. You could talk with your pharmacist or read the PDR and it will give you the time release information that shows when the med is released and when it peaks and when it is supposed to be finished. I suggested to my kids Dr. that we add the 5mg Ritilan at the end of the day for the one boy. Maybe your doc might see if you could give your child one 5mg Ritalin in the morning? Just a few ideas, hope it helps.
I wish I knew more too - There isn't a whole lot of info on this board