"i have an 8 year old with adhd, odd &amp; anxiety and a 7 year old with adhd.  we tried everything before going to meds - healthy diet (no sugar/dyes), exercise, consistent schedule.  both boys have taken focalin xr for a year (started with low dosages and increased as they grew) and it&#039;s been life changing!  the meds have drastically improved their grades, behaviors and relationships.  both boys take a small dose of focalin with lunch to get through the afternoon and a small dose of clonidine in the evening to slow things down for bedtime.  focalin xr has been our saving grace - now instead of constant redirection, we can actually go do things and have fun.  the only side effects are suppressed appetite, but they are both a healthy weight."