ADHD and Focalin XR?

Question

My 7-yr old son was diagnosed today and was put on 15 mg/day to start tomorrow. I have struggled with this decision and I have read a ton of info on the internet. Many pros, many cons. Anyone out there know much of Focalin personally?

Answer 1

I personally don't know anyone who's on Focalin that I know of, but I can testify that I know a couple of people who have been helped so much by medication for ADHD. My mom is an educator who often works with children with this disorder, and she says that the test scores of children on medication often raise, sometimes by grade levels, when the children are properly medicated, because it allows them to focus and let their true knowledge and ability shine through. Give the medication a couple or three weeks to fully kick in and I think you'll be amazed at how much better it is for everyone. If you don't like the medication after that amount of time, talk to the doctor again and share your concerns with the doctor.

Answer 2

I dunno, the following from the Focalin XR site kind of puts me off the stuff right from the get-go:

"The most common side effects of Focalin® XR (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) extended-release capsules in clinical trials in children over 6 years old were upset
stomach, nausea, decreased appetite, headache, and anxiety.

The most common side effects of Focalin® XR in a clinical study of adults were dry mouth, dyspepsia, feeling jittery, dizziness, anxiety, and throat pain.

Other side effects seen with Focalin® XR include vomiting, dizziness, sleeplessness, nervousness, tics, allergic reactions, increased blood pressure, and psychosis (abnormal thinking or hallucinations).

This is not a complete list of possible side effects of Focalin® XR. Ask your doctor about other side effects. If you develop any side effect, talk to your doctor. "

Just my 2 cents.