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A 40-year-old male asked:

Is there an alternate to methylphenidate to cure/control adhd in a 5 year old child, who also has mild autism and 2 instances of epileptic seizures?

3 doctor answers8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Johanna Fricke
Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral 52 years experience
MPH has a slight : Risk of lowering the seizure threshhold. Start with a very low dose of vyvanse; it often causes fewer side effects than its active ingredient, Adderall xr. 20 mg. Of vyanse = ~ 6.5 mg. Of Adderall xr. Onset of action is 2 hrs.; duration is 12-14 hrs. Intuniv 1mg. Or strattera (atomoxetine) 10 mg. With very slow titration works in ~ 4-6 wks., when a low-dose stimulant often can be added without side effects.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Anthony Vertino
Clinical Psychology 25 years experience
Nonstimulants: With a history of seizures in a child so young, nonstimulant medications such as intunive or stratera may be worth discussing with your doctor.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. William Singer
Pediatric Neurology 53 years experience
Several alternatives: Among the alternatives are amphetamines (adderall, vyvanse) Provigil and nuvigil. these are not likely to cause a recurrence of seizures but are efficacious in treating ADHD
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Dec 3, 2020

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