4Year old ADHD I am very frustrated - ADD / ADHD Message Board

rfw · 11-24-2003, 09:37 AM

I have a a son who was diagnosed with severe ADHD with oppositional problems also. He started Strattera 5 weeks ago and the response was incredible. He became the ideal student at school, church, and at home was wonderful. Well, week 5 went down hill fast, at school he started hitting and spitting again and having violent verbal outbursts. By Sunday we had a huge meltdown that lasted 35 minutes, until he was exhausted. I am very confused why the medicine worked so well for four weeks then just stopped.
I called the dr. and was advised by a nurse that it could just be the holiday season! I do not buy it! Does anyone have any suggestions or support to offer?
Thanks!
rfw

Coopersmom · 11-24-2003, 05:46 PM

We have had the same thing happen with Concerta. You might need to up his dosage because his body is getting to use to that dosage or changing him to something else. Regardless, his doctor should be listening to you and not suggesting that it is the "holidays." Please insist with the nurse on talking to your doctor.

Unfortunately when you are starting this journey with your child, it really is a trial and error situation. We started with Adderall which worked great for about three weeks and then my son started being mean. We switched to Concerta which seemed to work well but then after a few months he became an emotional wreck and was getting no sleep. Now we are back on a low dose of Adderall and it seems to be working great.

Good luck and don't forget to talk to your doctor!

Vanessa

szarkam · 11-25-2003, 08:08 AM

I agree with Coopersmom - you should insist to speak with the doctor.

Jodie · 11-27-2003, 10:23 PM

What type of Dr. would even consider attempting to diagnose a 4-year-old!!
I honestly don't mean to be judgemental but damn.... what do you expect from a 4-year-old--perfect behavior?? I have severe ADHD and the problems didn't start until I was about 7 or 8 (which is the norm for those affected by adhd). I have no idea what your home life is like--nor will I make any assumptions--but look to that first. These drugs are serious! A 4-year-old! Jesus, poor thing doesn't even know what the hell hit him. Stop looking to pharmaceuticals to solve your problems.

cymomtx · 11-28-2003, 07:23 AM

Yes, a child can be diagnosed at the age of 4. My son was, we tried for a year to not put him on medication. When we finally did, we wished we had immediatly. It is heartbreaking to watch a child with ADHD try and fit into the mold of a perfect little child, as is expected by most in society, when they are definately outside of the box.

Call you doctor and make an appointment. There are many medications and you will find one that your child will be successful with.