Is 74mg of Concerta safe for a 9 year old who weighs 77lbs?

[Diane Flatt]

I just found this site today, and I am thrilled!
My sons psychiatrist want to up his Concerta to 74mg along with his Zyprexa 7.5mg. This seems too strong to me. He does need more help but I am soo afraid that he will be overmedicated. Is anyone else on this high dose?
Thanks for any input!
Diane

[keke1971]

I did not know that they even when that high because my sons mental heath doctor which is a pyscatrist (if I spelled it wrong sorry) told me the highest dosage was 54mg this is the first time I heard of 74mg. I also had a friend who son was taken Concerta too and after he went up to 54mg which we had the same doctor and it wasn't working for her son he told her that was the highest dosage and he changed her son to another med.
My son is 9 and he only takes 36mg and I have not given him anything else. Maybe you need to get another opinion on your son if you are not feeling comfortable.

[sawbuck44]

My son just yesterday got prescribed 18mg of Concerta and he is a 5' 7", 177 lb. boy! In a month we go back to see if it needs to be increased. At 74mg does he have any appetite at all?!

[Redhead23]

It's 72mg (newest size I think), I have heard of other kids taking the same amount. I take 2x36mg although I am an adult.

I don't think 72mg is "too much" it is very individual, some react strongly and need very low doses, others need higher ones.

[Diane Flatt]

Thank you for your help. I am going to be giving my son 2 of the 36 mg o make the 72 (oops not 74).