No Side Effects, Part 2
If the extra dose triggers the opposite reaction—and your child becomes even more "wired" than before—it's clear that sleeplessness really is a side effect. This problem can often be remedied by giving your child a weight-adjusted dose of the over-the-counter antihistamine Benedryl just before bedtime.
Benadryl is not a sleeping pill, but if your child lies quietly in a dark room after taking a dose, sleep should come within an hour. (Benadryl is for occasional use only.)
What if the sleep problem persists? See what happens if you reduce the 4:00 p.m. dose or give it up entirely. Of course, this might cause your child's ADHD symptoms to flare up in the evening. If so, ask the doctor about trying a non-stimulant medication.
