Guanfacine

I have resisted for 6 years the idea of Ladybug going on medication.  This can be handled without medication.  It can.

But after 6 years I was beginning to break my resolve.  Maybe meds would work?  Maybe. 

Then I tried her on caffeine.  And by caffeine I mean... Mountain Dew.   A glass in the morning before school.  A glass at lunch.  And what happened?  Teachers started calling me... to tell me what a great job she was doing in school.  She was nice.  And sweet.  So I started thinking about meds.

I talked to her pediatrician.  Adderall.  Ritalin.  I am okay.  But the doctor had another idea.  He wanted to start her on a non-stimulant.  But caffeine is a stimulant.  Right?  Why a non-stimulant.  And it is working.

But he had 2 good arguments -- like any good doctor would.  First, stimulants (even when given in the mornings) can disrupt sleep patterns.  We all know she doesn't sleep.  Ever.  And I had notice her sleep was worse after she started taking caffeine.  Second, kids who are reactive can become more reactive on a stimulant.  Oh no!  She could be worse on caffeine??  This is not good.

So I started her on Guanfacine. 

Good at school.  Good at home.  Sweet.  Nice.  Loving. 

Why did I wait so long to drug this girl?

Mean Mama