Hi Steph, My difficult child didn't refuse medications till she was a teen, so it was slightly different, though just as difficult to make her understand that it was one of those 'no choice' rules for living together. She eventually went off her medications almost 2 years ago. I personally think she could use an AD, but she won't even discuss it with me - treats the idea as if I'm trying to poison her.
Any chance you could have the prescribing DR speak with her alone about taking her medications? Perhaps she would not have a meltdown with him/her and without you present to 'perform' for. Just a thought. I know that when my difficult child was that age she would go out of her way to outperform herself in front of others if I was present. However, if I was not in the room and a controversial topic of conversation came up, she was less apt to act up.
Risperdal was a lifesaver for us for years. I hope it's not side effects/reactions she is having a hard time with because it's a good medication.
Sending hugs & support~
