Our 10yr old daughter (70lbs) was taking Concerta (36mg) and doing really well on it, however in January it’s effectiveness declined. Since she had not gained weight and started two ticks/habits, our Dr. decided not to increase the dosage, and instead we’ve started Strattera. We started on 10mg, and then quickly moved to 20mgs. It has been 2 weeks, and we’ve noticed: she’s falling asleep easier at night, and has an increased appetite. She says she doesn’t notice any difference between Concerta and Strattera, but the teacher and I are noticing her behavior “regressing” . She is touching and “bothering” kids and her brother again, and is forgetful. The ticks (slight vocalization and tongue movement) continue, but the Dr. says it’s still too soon for them to go away.
We remember the dramatic positive difference when she went from Adderall to Concerta, and so with Strattera were hoping for more obvious improvement. Every day matters, and her behaviors can quickly damage the social ground she has gained this year.
It’s been helpful to read entries from those of you “ahead” of us with Strattera. It seems - like so much in life - that it all depends on the individual!
SO! We’re going to keep reading these posts, and give Strattera some more time. Meanwhile, I’d love to hear from parents with children who have these uncontrolable urges to touch others, or who are stuggling with other “habits” that they can’t seem to stop (or as soon as they stop are immediately replaced with another one).
Re: Strattera updates?
My 10 yr old daughter has been on Strattera 40 mg for almost 6 weeks and the results have been great. My daughter was just diagnosed with ADHD and Strattera was the first med she got. I haven’t seen any of the side effects that some of the others have and I am thankful. My daughter seems to be “more on task” and the continuous talking has stopped and she can actually pay attention to the small things. Although there are always those “moments” I have to keep in mind that she is still a child. The longer she has been on Strat, the more I notice the positive changes. Although, from what I have read, all meds work differently with each child.
Re: Strattera updates?
well, we gave Strattera as long as we could - our doughter’s back on Concerta, with Tenex to help her with touching others. so far, so good….
yep around first wk of Strat, my daughter hit a girl in the face….she said bec “she was bothering me”…..yeah nice reason. Oh well…Lauren only lasted 2 wks on Start bec I could NOT let her behaviour continue to downward spiral. I just don’t think it was the right med for her - I believe we’ll probably try Concerta next wk when we see her Psych again on April 2nd.
Good luck w/ the Strat sure hope it works for your daughter.
Keep us updated!
Loves,
S