Is Your ADHD Child Worse in the Afternoons Since Starting Medication? Understanding Medication Rebound

If your child seems worse in the afternoons after starting ADHD medication, they might be experiencing medication rebound. This phenomenon is distinct from withdrawal or comedown and is defined as the re-emerging and worsening of symptoms the medication was used to treat. Let’s dive deeper into what this means and how to manage it.

What Is Medication Rebound?

Medication rebound occurs as the medication wears off and the body returns to its baseline state. A relatable example of rebound is what happens with coffee. As the effects of coffee wear off, you might feel more tired than before you had it to combat your drowsiness. Similarly, as ADHD medication wears off, the symptoms it was managing can come back stronger for a short period.

Here are a few tips for managing medication rebound:

Timing Adjustments: Talk to your child’s doctor about the timing of the medication. Sometimes, adjusting when the medication is taken can help reduce rebound effects.

Dosage Changes: It may be necessary to tweak the dosage. A lower or higher dose, or a different formulation, might provide more consistent symptom management. It's not often individuals fair well on all forms of ADHD medication. For example, Ritalin vs Dex. Concerta vs Vyvanse.

Supplementary Strategies: Combine medication with behavioural strategies and lifestyle changes. This might include structured routines, physical activity, and balanced nutrition.

Afternoon Boosters: In some cases, a small afternoon dose of medication can help smooth out the rebound period or switching to a longer acting medication to reduce that sudden drop experienced from shorter acting forms. It sometimes has an easier return to baseline, sometimes, but not all the time. A Food Booster: Drinks like Up&Go are a great example of a perfect rebound helper. They have protein, which is perfect for the ADHD brain so they may help to produce dopamine. They have sugar, which is a mild stimulant, they have vitamins and minerals, and kid's love them because they're seen as a treat. Always keep stock of something like this as it can also help to carry with you for when you're out.

Conclusion

Medication rebound is a common issue that can make afternoons challenging for children on ADHD medication. By understanding this phenomenon and working with your child’s healthcare provider, you can find ways to manage these effects and ensure a more balanced day for your child.