ADHD

[kim1988]

Hi. I have only just joined & so this is my very first post. So ok this is my story (problem). My son has just turned 6 & was diagnosed with ADHD a few months ago. He was started on Medikinet (excuse the spelling?!) a couple of months ago & it seems to be working wonders! Which is absolutely wonderful. My problem is that it only works for about 7 hours & then it's as if all this defiance (bratiness) & impulsiveness, lack of concentration etc has been building up for the 7hours because he is 10times worse than normal when the medication wears off! To make matters worse he is suffering from SEVERE insomnia since he started the meds. I'm really reluctant to change his meds as his schoolwork is remarkable at the minute & his teachers are full of praise (which is a very pleasant change!) & I am also reluctant to pump him full of more meds (the pediatrician has offered to prescribe a night time tablet which I'm assuming is some sort of sedative). I am at my wits end at the min though so have gave him a recommended herbal med for the 1st time tonight but have now been made to feel guilty about giving him this. Any advise from someone in a similar situation or someone with any sort of advise would be greatly appreciated as I am tearing my hair out! x

[Deenamumof1]

I'm sorry I have no advice for you but don't feel bad you need your rest as well as little one.

[tallulah]

My DD has just turned 7 and is also on medikinet. As you say, when it wears off she is diabolical. She takes melatonin to encourage her to sleep. It isn't a sleeping tablet as such, but mimics the body's natural falling asleep rhythm in children who don't produce enough naturally.

She was staying awake until after 11pm then being a screaming banshee at 8am and refusing to get out of bed. She is now dropping off at 8pm and waking up naturally between 7 - 7.30am to get ready for school.

[kim1988]

I might look in to that thanks for the advice'