My child had a headache for his 1st few days on a stimulant, so if it's not unbearable, I'd try it for two weeks and see how it goes. Definitely don't increase the dose, though, if he's having side effects like headaches.
For my child, the Metadate CD takes about 30-45 minutes to kick in. You should then see improvement in ADHD symptoms immediately. It does not need to build in your system.
Remember that your child is starting on a low dose, so look for small improvements in the ADHD. You may have to increase the dose a few times before you're seeing maximum benefit from taking it. However, you have to increase the dose slowly to watch for what would be optimal and in order to reduce side effects.
Good luck!
My son (8) just started 10mg of Metadate this morning and he already seems a bit more angry (he can normally be angry anyway) but, just wondering if ADHD medcan increase certain behaivors. He also said his head hurts, but this seems all too quick. This is our first time with an ADHD med so not sure what to expect. We just stopped Respidal on him because that did nothing for him. He is so very implusive! Not sure if this is even right for him, but the doc wants to try.
Thanks
Marie
Mom to Anthony ASD,ADHD, OCD