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Originally Posted by dontdrink36
Anyone have any kids taking meds for ADD/ADHD to help them get through the school day? What drugs worked best, what didnt work? Side effects etc.
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I taught spec ed and I had several kids taking medications. We would know within 2 mins of HR if a kid didnt take his meds that day.
In terms of specifics, I can't give you an honest answer, and nobody in here can give you anything but anecdotes unless they are a psychiatrist or pharmacist.
Do you research, listen to your Dr's and respectfully get a 2nd opinion if you feel like you should (though this could take months to years, it's not like diagnosing an ACL tear).
Most drugs take time to work, so you can't give up on them right away. Most kids will go through an adjustment period while on them. Sluggishness, a change of personality. If it lasts more than a few weeks you might need an adjustment. Whatever you do, the child should take the meds consistently. Not taking them on Tuesday because he was sluggish Monday, then taking Wednesday only makes everything worse.
Just do your research and due diligence. I've sat in many IEP meetings at school, and ISPT meetings as a mobile therapist. My advice I give parents is this: nobody wants to medicate your children, unless they need it. The need for medicine is likely due to a chemical imbalance. It's no different than the way your body processes insulin- if your child was diagnosed with diabetes, would you not want to give them medicine? This isn't different, despite the stigma. It may take a year to find the right med and dosage, but do what you have to do to help your child.