Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 9/8/2006

Question
Hi my nephew is currently on concerta 36 mg once a day. It has helped but he just isn't the same boy. He just seems down and will not eat much at all. With your experience are these acceptable side effects they go away as soon as the 12 hours are up. Thank you for your time

Answer
Concerta have various doses, 18mg,36mg,54mg and 72mg. As you have not stated the diagnosis I will assume he has ADD/ADHD. Some patients respond well to Concerta provided the dose is correct for them. If the dose is not ideal it will not give a satisfactory result. The symptoms you mention are as a result of the medication but a knowledegable doctor will know how to adjust the dose to optimal and inform the parents what to do about the minor side-effects. All can be managed .An  overdosed child looks like a Zombie!