Meds for my son - Page 2

Tina · #11 08-21-2010, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drummerboy_dave

A new study on my son indicates the possibility of him having ADHD. We are considering medical treatment options. If you have pertinent information regarding the pros and cons of stimulants (we're thinking Focalin) versus non-stimulants (Strattera) please respond. Our next appointment is the 25th.

Thanks!

If you are looking for other alternative treatments before medication, you might want to read this book.

http://www.amazon.com/D-D-Nutrition-...2404567&sr=8-1

drummerboy_dave · #12 08-21-2010, 10:59 AM

Thanks. As I said, the road has been long with seemingly no end in sight. For him, behaviour modification is not enough. He's told us that he wants to "do good, but his brain won't let him."

School hasn't started yet this year, but I'd describe his IEP as somewhat successful. He gets a daily sensory diet, also individual time with a social worker and a speech pathologist. We all still have concerns because of his anxiety, mood swings, aggressive behaviour, and his inability to follow the most basic directions.

The thought is, that a med will give him help in his concentration and attention, which will aleviate some of the anxiety, etc... We have several other recomendations such as dietary, games, and activities, that we are trying as well. But we do feel, this is the next step to follow in his situation. I guess I'm looking for any personal data someone out there in AFF might have regarding either of these drugs.

From what I've read, Strattera might have less side effects, but may take several weeks to "adjust". There may or may not be the desired effect and I'm somewhat concerned on what that "emotional ride" might be like for him. God knows, he's had enough already. Right now, I feel as if Focalin might be a better choice for us to to try first. We can find out sooner if it will help him, and if not, then maybe try Strattera.

Thanks for the link, Tina.

drummerboy_dave · #13 08-21-2010, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Margies3

I really think it all depends on what works for YOUR child. My son is on Adderall. He's been taking it since he was 4 years old and is 16 now. One year, when he was about 8th grade, the doctor decided she needed to have him try some other meds (Straterra was one of them, as was Focalin). It was a horrible experience and he basically lost a whole year of learning in school. In the end, he ended up right back on the Adderall. The Adderall works for him when nothing else does.

So you all are satisfied with the stimulant. Have you seen any downside, besides when the Dr. wanted to experiment?

Truthseeker · #14 08-21-2010, 11:19 AM

Back in the day, what did they do with kids before all these drugs?

drummerboy_dave · #15 08-21-2010, 11:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Truthseeker

Back in the day, what did they do with kids before all these drugs?

They likely grew up undiagnosed, untreated and struggling to survive in society, for their entire lives. (They had mental hospitals way back; must have been a terrible place! Now they just have prisons; probably an upgrade to the mental hospital.)

Before this, I had little understanding and thus little empathy for individuals with a mental disorder. I'd even say I was sceptical, as your question would seem to indicate you are. Today, I have a growing appreciation for the study of neuropsychology and the achievements and advancements they've made over the years.

DAII · #16 08-21-2010, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drummerboy_dave

They likely grew up undiagnosed, untreated and struggling to survive in society, for their entire lives. (They had mental hospitals way back; must have been a terrible place! Now they just have prisons; probably an upgrade to the mental hospital.)

Before this, I had little understanding and thus little empathy for individuals with a mental disorder. I'd even say I was sceptical, as your question would seem to indicate you are. Today, I have a growing appreciation for the study of neuropsychology and the achievements and advancements they've made over the years.

With you, bro. There is a lot to be said about mental health that few either understand or choose to dismiss. There is no doubt that science has shown links between our neurology, body chemistry, hormones, etc.

You don't just pray through asthma or grow out of diabetes.

There are many Christian adults who need help and even medicine.

CC1 · #17 08-21-2010, 01:03 PM

drummerboy_dave,

My son in law has ADD. He is about 30 years old and has a Masters degree in business, is fluent in Spanish, etc BUT ADD is a huge problem in his life.

He had been on medication (adderal I believe) since he was young and it allows him to function. Like many of us he believes medication for ADD is over prescribed and some children who really are not ADD are diagnosed with it. He has discovered the hard way that he was not one of those children and must have the medication to be able to focus whether in school or on a job.

He decided a few years ago to forgo the medicene and just count on God to help him. For those two or so years he went through about four jobs. He could not focus and would say or do inappropriate things eventually that would get him fired.

Once he started back on the meds he got an excellent job and kept it for the three years until the Company pulled out of our state.

I can always tell if he has not taken his medication. The difference in behaviour is striking. If he is singing old negro spirituals loudly at 6:30 am then I know he has not taken his medication yet!

It sounds like you have spent considerable time making sure your son actually does have a problem beyond normal adolescent ones. With that in mind I would urge you to pursue the path of finding the proper medication to help him now so he does not get behind in school or his social development. I have no knowledge to suggest one medication over another but just to pursue finding one that works for him. I will be praying for you.

Truthseeker · #18 08-23-2010, 11:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drummerboy_dave

They likely grew up undiagnosed, untreated and struggling to survive in society, for their entire lives. (They had mental hospitals way back; must have been a terrible place! Now they just have prisons; probably an upgrade to the mental hospital.)

Before this, I had little understanding and thus little empathy for individuals with a mental disorder. I'd even say I was sceptical, as your question would seem to indicate you are. Today, I have a growing appreciation for the study of neuropsychology and the achievements and advancements they've made over the years.

Yes, I'm skeptically big time.

coadie · #19 08-24-2010, 06:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr. Smith

One doesn't "grow out of it". It only gets worse. Much worse.

Is that true? ADD is often diagnosed by non medical people. In the case of my son, we just changed schools. Now he is 3 years ahead of schedule in getting a college degree in chemistry and math.

coadie · #20 08-24-2010, 06:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DAII

With you, bro. There is a lot to be said about mental health that few either understand or choose to dismiss. There is no doubt that science has shown links between our neurology, body chemistry, hormones, etc.

You don't just pray through asthma or grow out of diabetes.

There are many Christian adults who need help and even medicine.

I prayed my daughter thru asthma. God delivered her. She is a track athlete at the national championshiops level now. I have a bible study partner. He and I prayed over his ex mo-inlaw and she was delivered from diabetes. I am familiar with diabetes. My nephew is diabetic and sells diabetic drugs. His wife is a Pharmacist. But he hasn't been healed.