ADHD Meds - How do you know if they are working.

[Anonymous]

Our 13 yo DS started taking Vyvanse about 2 weeks ago. We are supposed to check in with the doctor to give her feedback on how it is going so far.

We asked our DS how he feels at school with the medicine and don't get much feedback other than "I feel more focused".

He has mentioned lack of appetite around lunch but no other side effects. Although, yesterday he was in a bad mood most of the day for some reason.

How do they determine what the proper dosage should be. Right now he is taking 30 mg.

[Anonymous]

Depends on why your child start taking the medication? To address a lack of focus, behavioral problems, impulsivity?

The doctor will ask what, if any, changes you've seen in the areas of concern and may adjust the dosage down or up based on what the child and parent each report until a significant improvement results, without too many side effects.

[Anonymous]

Feeling more focused is a good sign. You should also be able to see that he is more focused through longer attention span, better schoolwork, positive teacher reports etc.

One day of bad mood is not significant, as that can happen for many reasons. Continued bad mood over days or weeks is significant.

Dr. will look for most effective dose without unacceptable side effects. You probably won't get 100% improvement, but if you get 70 or 80%, you are doing great.

[Anonymous]

And if hyperactivity/impulsivity are issues, you should see a reduction in frequency and severity of behaviors.

[Anonymous]

Our doctor asks us to ask teachers to fill out forms at regular intervals to gauge progress.

[Anonymous]

Your psychiatrist should have a list of very pointed questions that he will ask your child.

[Anonymous]

My son also takes Vyvanse and we were told that he is at the correct dosage if his appetite disappears. It did. How much does your child weigh? My son is tiny (maybe 65lbs) and takes 20mg.

[Anonymous]

my DH takes vyvanse and it's like someone flips a switch. When he forgets to take it first thing in the morning on the weeekend I can always tell because he's horribly grouchy, eats everything in sight and can't stay focused long enough to put on shoes and tie them (or similar short duration).