Once again we are thinking about stopping Concerta 36mg to Felipe after one of Felipe's doctors told us they want to lower the dosage to 18mg because 36 is a bit too high for his age, nevertheless we know how he is with 18mg alone: no difference so we decided to make a total change in activities, etc. So I am hoping to get some information about side effects of the drug when you stop it.
So far, I found out that it is not joke. Once you stop is like you stop giving cocaine to a drug addict since methylphenidate is an stimulant and can cause addiction to the drug if you try to remove it quickly, that's why you need to stop it gradually. It can also cause withdrawals symptoms and the following:
Side Effects Of Stopping Concerta (Hover)
So the main problem seems to be addiction with a secondary problem of depression and unusual behavior.
Well, the addiction is not an issue since we are not dealing with a teen or adult in our case. The unusual behavior will be 'normal' since with Felipe most of his movements seems to be involuntary. As far as depression, I have only see this when he is medicated as opposed to being off the meds. I think the key will be lots of activities.
QUOTE |
Well, the addiction is not an issue since we are not dealing with a teen or adult in our case. |
There are different doses for concerta, but they are not always readily available. Right now he is prescribed 36mg, so if you go to 18mg that is a significant decrease. The question I have is how long should he be at that dosage before we do not give him anymore? After taking 18mg for 'x' days we should then stop - what is 'x'?
QUOTE (JB @ 21-Mar 07, 9:46 PM) |
Have you found any blogs or articles anywhere from parents who stopped using the concerta and the results after? |