Hi everyone. My son Albert started on Concerta 18 mg once a day two weeks ago. He takes it first thing in the morning (6:30am) with breakfast. In the first week, he kept complaining about leg pains and cramps, especially in the upper thigh area. I gave him Ibuprofen and used a heating pad at night to make him more comfortable. This side effect seems to have gone away, but it seems to have been replaced by little appetite during the day (specifically in the morning and lunchtime). After about 6pm or so his appetite improves and he has a pretty good dinner. His behavior has improved some (he is ADHD combined type), but not completely. I am hopeful once his body gets used to the medicine his appetite will return and his behavior will continue to improve.

Do you think he's on the right track? Are his side effects typical? I'd appreciate any input you can give me.

Thanks!


PS: I also posted this on the Concerta board, incase you think you're seeing double. :D

Loss of appetite is very common with ADHD medications. Sometimes it levels out and the appetite comes back, but sometimes not. If you get too worried, try giving him the instant breakfast drinks in his milk. That way he'll get some of the extra calories he's missing.