Monthly Archive: March 2018

ADHD Meds – Will they work?

We decided to try ADHD meds after our other efforts to improve CB’s attention did not help. His neurologist prescribed the liquid fast release form of methylphenidate at a low dose. CB tried the meds out over the weekend. We noticed that he was still completely himself but he was not as distracted as usual. He mentioned that his heart was racing the second evening he was on the meds, but did not comment on this feeling ever again. His teachers all commented about how much the meds helped him focus, feel less frustrated, and be in a better place to learn. His teachers reported that his learning remained pretty stagnant the 2nd 9 weeks of school and after he started the adhd meds, learning began to progress again and his behaviors improved immediately. Since he was on the fast release dosage, he took it in the morning and just before lunch. His teachers reported that they did not give him any demanding work just before lunch when they could tell his meds were wearing off. We wonder if he experienced the rebound effect during that time as he would seem more easily frustrated. Either way, it was easy for everyone to tell the ADHD meds were helping him focus, helped his regulatory behaviors (like saying the same word/phrase over and over, randomly blurting out inappropriate words, rocking), and helped him learn and progress.

February was a very positive month for everyone! In addition to CB being happier, I got the help I needed and was able to turn my outlook around. I also started attending a parenting class for parents with children with special needs. The class provided me with some new tools for dealing with difficult behavior and I felt empowered, like I could help my son again.