My DD is 8.5 and also in third grade. She is HG and has ADHD, as well. We have only tried one medication with her (Biphentin), but her mood has been adversely effected by dose increases. She should be taking 20mg by weight, but she cannot cope with life on that dose. It makes her overly emotional. She cries at the drop of a hat and has rage-like tantrums that she has never had before in her life. She also displayed symptoms of depression. We bumped her down to 15 mg and she is a different kid. Our problem now is that her ADHD is not as well managed as it could be and we are in the process of considering a different med altogether.
It really is a bit of trial and error, for each child is different. Both our pediatrician and pharmacist suggested that stimulant meds take at least a few weeks for the body to fully adjust to. And I will agree that it took about two-three weeks for any side effects to settle down (decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, etc.). However, when her mood was affected it never did get any better.
Good for you for making an appointment with your doctor. It is incredibly hard to watch your child go through these types of frustrations, knowing that it may be medication related. I have spent a few sleepless night wondering if I am doing the right thing for my child. My DD constantly reassures me that she can't cope without her meds, and that helps me feel better.
Good luck finding a better med or dose!
