My 7 year old son previously was on 30 mg of generic Ritalin (15mg in morning and 15mg at noon). He seemed to do pretty good, except there were too many rebound issues and with school starting I wanted a slow release. About three weeks ago my son’s doctor started him on 18mg Concerta. The first few days seemed okay, but now I am questioning the medication/dosage. I spoke with his teacher who told me he seemed a bit quiet and withdrawn (this is something I have noticed too). Also after school at homework time I believe the Concerta has worn off. I give it to him as late as I can in the morning – about 15 minutes before the bus picks him up. Should I seek a higher dose? Or will that make him even quieter and more withdrawn? Or will a higher dose get him back to "normal"?
Thanks!
lauralee7639342.8442592593My son was on Concerta for almost a year.....and he was very withdrawn.....as far as it wearing off, I had the same problem. I started on the 27mg and went up to 36mg because it was wearing off so early. The higher dose turned him into a zombie. Last week they switched us to Adderall XR......I don't think I like it either......blah!
The different release forms of the same med can act differently for a person. There are parents here who's children have done poorly on concerta but great on ritalin LA or metadate and visa versa.
The stimulant meds can increase anxiety and emotional lability, causing the issues that MnkyMoma has described. In this case, a non-stimulant might work or the use of a 2nd or 3rd tier med may be needed. Anxiety makes ADHD treatment more difficult.
I am one of the parents whose child did better on Ritalin LA over Concerta. Mydaughter had anxiety with both, but mood swings and anxiety were definitely better with RLA. The oly problem is it is not as long acting as Concerta (10 hours opposed to 12). So you would maybe need an afternoon booster of regular Ritilan or 2 doses. We have ended up going non stimulant (with so so success) for now.
IMO raising his dose with make him more withdrawn.