I will look into other meds., but there are no psychiatrist here. We live in a remote area. The doctors are actually pediatric residents who change every 6 weeks, so I explain the history each time to a new doctor.
His 'other ' behavior isn't anxiety, but mild obsessive/compulsive behavior, he doesn't like the colour green right now.
While on Ritalin he seems to be in a constant state of impulses and defiance, so I'll ask about other med. options., maybe to supplement or replace the ritalin.
My 6 year old was diagnosed with ADHD about 4 months ago. 5 mg. of Ritalin in the morning and at supper seemed to work for a couple of months. Now he seemed to be unaffected by it, and I'm wondered if we need to increase his dose, or explore other options.
When his prescription wasn't picked up in time, for one weekend he went without Ritalin. He was so calm, polite, considerate for 90% of the weekend that his siblings didn't want him to go back on the Ritalin. His explosive, impulsive moments were extreme, but he was so good for the rest of the time.
My son says the pills make him feel mad. On the mornings or evenings that he's acting 'nice' are the times when I find his pill stuffed in the couch or thrown somewhere. I'd like to explore natural options, but doctors don't seem to help with that.
It sounds like Ritalin isn't the right medication for him. Adderall did that to my son. It made him aggitated and angry. He's on Ritalin now and it works well for him as long as he also takes Tenex. But if the Ritalin dose is too high he gets aggitated and angry just like with Adderall. My son's doctor said that my son has anxiety along with his ADHD and the stimulants work well on the ADHD but aggravate the anxiety. That's where the Tenex comes in...it helps calm him and makes him less aggitated.
Definitely check with your doctor about changing meds or doses. Does he see a phychiatrist or just the pediatrician?
Welcome Fi-357 :) Obsssesive Compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder and it must be put under control first before ADHD meds are given. Otherwise, stimulants can increase anxiety and agitation for the child with untreated OCD.
Its really unfortunate that you don't have access to a specialist because very specific treatment is needed to treat these problems when an anxiety disorder is also present. These children do better one on one or when there is less stimulation in the environment as less stimulation means less anxiety. Only a trained professional can put your son on a path to proper treatment. Good luck and please keep us posted.
Luvmykids0240087.815162037Also, it may be worth it to go to another town to see a psychiatrist at least for the initial visit. I just had such a different (and better!) experience with a psychiatrist vs. a pediatrician. My son was a very difficult case for them but the psych. took charge and got it right within a few weeks. The psych knows the nuances of each medication that the other docs don't know. We only have to actually go see the doc every 3-4 mo. The rest of the time we communitate by phone. Maybe that would work for you even if you had to make a long trip every few months. I just suggest it because I feel for you soooooo much-I've been there!- and the doctor switch made the difference in our lives. Good luck in whatever you decide to do!
Since he seemed to do well off the medications, it might be worth it to try keeping him off them for a week or two to see how he does in several settings (home and school). Not every kid needs meds forever. If that doesn't seem reasonable or doesn't work out, definitely look at other meds.
Be sure to tell your son that you're proud of him for being able to articulate how he's feeling when he's on the meds. It's very helpful for you and your son's doctor to know how he's feeling. Telling him you appreciate it will make it easier for him to tell you how he's feeling in the future. Plus, a lot of kids with ADHD struggle to put names to their feelings. Anytime he can do that, he deserves a compliment. :)
Good luck!