6th December 2007
klyn07,
I can't give you the answers - just some generalities that seem to apply and one that I can emphatically state as truth - you are not failing your son.
I am now an ol geezer but I remember VIVIDLY what it was like as a child with ADHD - living hell.
As far as meds ... it depends on the degree of severity of your child's disorder as to how high a dose is too high. The normal indication of stimulant over-medication is the exact opposite of what is expected, namely, the child appears zombie-like with no emotional response to anything. The child appears unaware of environment and becomes totally self-absorbed. Hollering, screaming and crying are symptoms more indicative of under-medicated. Again, many could argue otherwise - and with justification - because it seems everyone responds uniquely to the meds.
The generally accepted maximum methylphenidate cumulative dose per day is 60mg. Your child is under that - 40mg - if I added correctly. Is his dose too high? That I can't say. But it is well under "max." Keep in mind that "max" is more a rule of thumb than an absolute. There may be good reason to prescribe a higher dose.
You need to trust your doctor. If your doctor gives you reasons not to trust him/her get another doctor.
Bob
I can't give you the answers - just some generalities that seem to apply and one that I can emphatically state as truth - you are not failing your son.
I am now an ol geezer but I remember VIVIDLY what it was like as a child with ADHD - living hell.
As far as meds ... it depends on the degree of severity of your child's disorder as to how high a dose is too high. The normal indication of stimulant over-medication is the exact opposite of what is expected, namely, the child appears zombie-like with no emotional response to anything. The child appears unaware of environment and becomes totally self-absorbed. Hollering, screaming and crying are symptoms more indicative of under-medicated. Again, many could argue otherwise - and with justification - because it seems everyone responds uniquely to the meds.
The generally accepted maximum methylphenidate cumulative dose per day is 60mg. Your child is under that - 40mg - if I added correctly. Is his dose too high? That I can't say. But it is well under "max." Keep in mind that "max" is more a rule of thumb than an absolute. There may be good reason to prescribe a higher dose.
You need to trust your doctor. If your doctor gives you reasons not to trust him/her get another doctor.
Bob