Are your kids having medical check-ups while on stimulants or Strattera? - ADD / ADHD Message Board

Palms1 · 11-12-2003, 08:20 AM

It would really interest me, if anybodys children are regularly monitored/have check-ups, blood pressure taken etc. before and while placed on stimulants or Strattera. I am really amazed that NONE of the doctors I have taken my son to has ever asked for a complete physical before putting my child on drugs nor has anybody ever monitored vital signs. Since I heard that there can be serious blood pressure issues as well as heart problems, it leaves me speechless that doctors feel that is not necessary.

badkat · 11-12-2003, 10:28 AM

My son's doctor - first did a complete check-up the every month for the first 6months of him being on meds. Now after 3yrs, we go in every 6months - along with his vitals being checked he also has the school do a review on him along with us (his parents) and goes over the answers with us so we aren't missing any signs of anything not working correctly.

Coopersmom · 11-12-2003, 11:51 AM

Yes, my doctor also does check-ups. At first, every month, now every three months or sooner if I request it. My son has not had any problems with blood pressure and now that he has been on meds for 8 months his eating is returning to normal and he is gaining weight.

I think you need to find a better doctor!

Vanessa

jboon · 11-12-2003, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Palms1

It would really interest me, if anybodys children are regularly monitored/have check-ups, blood pressure taken etc. before and while placed on stimulants or Strattera. I am really amazed that NONE of the doctors I have taken my son to has ever asked for a complete physical before putting my child on drugs nor has anybody ever monitored vital signs. Since I heard that there can be serious blood pressure issues as well as heart problems, it leaves me speechless that doctors feel that is not necessary.

My son's doctor did a thorough check-up before he started on meds and sees him specifically for an ADHD check-up at least every six months.

cymomtx · 11-13-2003, 03:52 AM

Our peditrician requires an exam every six months with blood work but the psychiatrist does not require anything.