New and need help

[Hml1976]

Hi all, thanks in advance for your help.

I have an almost 6yr son who was diagnosed nearly a year ago with the Hyper-Impulsive type of ADHD, he actually has every one of the symptoms on the two tests he was given. We were not surprised as he has been extremely hyper since he was an infant, we just held off testing until the impulsive behavior became unbearable. We tried behavior therapy, occupational therapy for sensory issues, running miles with our toddler...nothing worked.

We started L on guanfacine (2.5mg twice a day) and it was ok, enough to get us through 4yr old preschool. But Kindergarten has been a mess so far. The teacher complains (and she's a great teacher, my daughter had her so I know her well) that he is touching other children constantly, calling out answers, refusing to wait for his turn, asking why he hasn't been called on, etc. Hovering underneath all of this is that our son is gifted, has a 140 IQ and loves schoolwork...any and all schoolwork so he is super excited about being in class every day.

We started Ritalin 5mg 2x a day about two weeks ago and it is having ZERO effect, if anything the behavior is worse. I'm terrified that stimulants aren't going to work for my son. Does anyone have any advice on which direction to go next? I have a call into our doctor but wanted some real world experience.

Thank you thank you!

[ccom5100]

Welcome! I can definitely relate to your situation.

Have you tried dietary intervention at all? There have been studies that show chemical-based additives, such as artificial colors, artificial flavors, and certain preservatives can cause or increase hyperactivity.

We follow a plan that eliminates those additives and my ds also takes guanfacine 2X/day. We started following the plan when he was 3 1/2 after being asked to leave 3 daycares. He is now 13 and his guanfacine dosage is less than your six year old's and I'm pretty sure it's because of his diet. Check out the articles listed below my signature, and if you'd like more information about the plan we follow, feel free to send me a private message.

[Hml1976]

Originally Posted by ccom5100

Welcome! I can definitely relate to your situation.

Have you tried dietary intervention at all? There have been studies that show chemical-based additives, such as artificial colors, artificial flavors, and certain preservatives can cause or increase hyperactivity.

We follow a plan that eliminates those additives and my ds also takes guanfacine 2X/day. We started following the plan when he was 3 1/2 after being asked to leave 3 daycares. He is now 13 and his guanfacine dosage is less than your six year old's and I'm pretty sure it's because of his diet. Check out the articles listed below my signature, and if you'd like more information about the plan we follow, feel free to send me a private message.

Hi and thanks for your post. Yes, we are huge fans of dietary intervention and have eliminated all food dyes, all artificial flavors and most preservatives for over a year. I cook almost entirely from scratch and buy very carefully. The only thing I haven't tried is a completely gluten-free diet.

My husband actually works in the health and fitness field so we're pretty educated on nutrition.

[LynneC]

Welcome!
As I'm sure you know, there is a titration process that your son will need to go through to find an effective dose of the ritalin. Your doc should go over this with you and give you some leeway in titrating his dose (based on your observation and the teacher's feedback) without a phone call each time. (at least, up to a certain dosage)

For many children, stimulants are very effective, but it can be a process to find the correct dosing and the best class of stimulant for your particular child.

My son has been on a methylphenidate-based stimulant for the past 2 years (mainly Focalin) with good success, but the dosage was no longer effective. I decided to try Vyvanse (in the amphetamine-based class) and am very happy with what I'm seeing. His mood and cooperation level seem to be much improved on the Vyvanse. Anyway, my point is don't be overly concerned yet that stimulant meds will be ineffective. You are just starting this journey!