just diagnosed | ADHD Information

Hi

My 7 year old has just been diagnosed with adhd combined hyperactivity and inattentivenss...wow....

He also has mild ceberal palsey, but is in main stream schooling..infact unless you watch him closely you may never know of his condition, we knew he was having some issues at school as we were experiencing similiar episodes at home but we had put it down to boredom as he is quiet intelligent, little did we know..no i knew but my husband and the school were more conservative in there understanding of my son' condition or probable condition.

So after all the testing and prodding and talks with this one and that he is now on focalin xr 5mg to start with the dose being upped to 10mg tomorrow...the school teacher has already seen a great change in him for the better..and as of yet we see no side effects so far some lite appitite change and a little longer to fall asleep..we must say we are blessed , that he has a great teacher and so far a very understanding school.My concern now though is long term effects...appetite loss personality change(as he is very funny and socialable), and stunted growth, hormone loss??? Has anyone experienced these side effects or know of them as they pertain to focalin???

Would be greatful of any and all feed back.Sorry if i rambled on but I'm very new to this and not to sure what to write.again thank you.

 

 

My son has been on Concerta and Vyvanse. His primary side effects have
been sleeplessness and loss of appetite. They are very easily overcome
by using melatonin and rescheduling his eating periods (expecting him to
have a breakfast and 2 "dinners" because he usually doesn't eat much at
lunch).

The number one reason I would change his medication is for a
personality change. It happens. Don't accept it. If you see that
happening, call the doctor.

Stunted growth - haven't seen that - my son is the tallest and youngest
kid in his class. We monitor his weight carefully. He's stayed right on
target.

If there are other physical changes - for instance, lately my son has
started having headaches - or if it doesn't work as well as it did before,
call the doctor.

It can be scary starting medications, but keep the big picture in mind.
There is nothing you are doing that you can't stop or change at any time.
Keep in touch with the doctor. You should be having quarterly med
check appointments anyway. Keep that relationship and communication
open. If there are any concerns, give the doc a call, bring your child in,
get answers. If you don't have that kind of relationship with the doctor,
cultivate one, or find a new doctor.

Good luck!