Concerta vs. Natural

[Guest guest]

I have been reading this group for sometime so I'm aware of the

strong anti-med sentiment found here but seek your response anyway be

it positive or flamming.

We recently stopped my son's daily doasge of Concerta (after about

2.5 years) . I am in no way against the use of this medication but I

believe it has served it's purpose as it did have a great effect in

allowing him to make it sucesssfully through 1-3 grades. However

after reading a report based on a study that concluded these meds

begin to diminish in effect after 3 years, combined with

the " difference " in personality and happiness I would see from him on

the weekends (when we would not have him take the med) we decided to

take a chance with it.

With only about 4 weeks of school left we are hoping to get some

feedback about any changes in his classroom behavior, which has been

all positive so far. Also we have not been giving him the med over the

past summers either so our plan is to continue with him off the meds

into 5th grade next year with the hope he can overcome his mental

and physical barriers using his own knowledge that he has this

disorder.He knows can overcome whatever obstacle it is currently

causing using his own methods. I stand completely open to having him

re-start the meds if it becomes obvious that is the right course. So

far he claims he feels no differnce personally. My wife and I can see

the difference in his concentration ability and his motor and verbal

control. However the longer he's gone without taking it the more even

his personality and other areas have become so overall I think it was

a good decision.

Anyone else have any experience of bringing your child off the med?

I'd be happy to hear how it went?

Thanks,

DustyWave2000