Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 6/18/2007

Question
Hi
My son who is 8 has been on concerta now for 4 months and his teacher and myself have seen a great improvement in his school work.
The only side effect that he seems to have is the loss of appetite, and doesnt seem to want to eat at lunch but will quite often eat later in the evening.  Anyway my question to you is... I was thinking in taking him off the medication for the school holidays, and then back on it again for school.  Is this alright to do?
Thank you

Answer
The answer is please do not stop medication in the hoiddays.I am surprised you ask this type of question. I would expect your doctor to advise you as part of his treatment program. Please do not stop his treatment during the holidays as it may impact negatively on his treatment. I am assuming he is taking Concerta for ADHD or ADD. This condition is not a part time condition and should not be treated part time .The same would apply to week-ends. Do not worry about his eating as his appetite will return eventually.