7 year old Son with ADHD | ADHD Information

Kids react differently to medications. You really can't compare them.

Doctors know what they're doing, but parents have to trust their gut. Don't
think about "shoulds" - who cares what the status quo is. If it works for
your kid, then that's all you need to know. But if it isn't working, or the side
effects are causing big problems, think about making a change. Don't settle.
It's worth the fight.

Good luck!My son is now 7 and was diagnosed with ADHD at age 6. I always felt that his "engine" ran very fast since he was about 2 but thought it was just me. Doctor who diagnosed in Aug. 2008 put him on Concerta (18 mg)at first. He swallowed the pills for a couple of days but became very defiant about taking them so I had to try something different. Now taking Methylin Oral Suspension (Methylphenidate--same as Concerta but liquid). He is up to 45 mg/day. Like I said...he is 7 and weighs about 36-37 lbs. Is this too much? He definitely needs this much to maintain control and is very unruly, loud, and defiant if he takes less. Am I overdosing my kid or do some kids have more severe degrees of ADHD that they need higher dosages of a stimulant? Need feedback from parents struggling with the same. Thanks so much@@ I'm not a Doctor but from my experience, if the amount your son is getting...is working for him, then it's probably the right dose.  Some stims are prescribed based on weight, others are prescribed "as needed".  In other words the dose is dependant on the level of ADHD and what works.  The dosing should always be left up to the Doc since they know the limits & guidelines but definately remain in close communication as far as what is working & what isn't when it comes to the dosage.  Our 7 yr old DS takes 4mg of Guanfacine and 30mg Daytrana patch daily.  His Guanfacine is prescribed by weight & he is at the max dosage for his weight but the Datrana is prescribed "as needed" and he has worked his way up to this dosage, which is also the max.  It just depends on the drug & the individual.  Hopefully this makes sense to you.