I do not think there is a correct answer to the question. It really becomes which is the most suitable for the child. Each child is different and no two medication will probably work for him in the same way. The whole process of finding the correct dose and the correct medication can some times take a while. I feel you need to trial the meds and see which one he has the best results with. My child is add and is on stattera and for our family this is the medication that suits us best and suits his needs. Although it is not perfect we our finally happy with our choice of medication. Our child is happy and our lives are able to function well although like I said not perfect.
Try the Australian Bush Flower Essences Cognis 7 drops in 16 oz of water, shake and sip while needing to concentrate and wanting to retain better, can also be used for better recall.
"Australian Bush Flower Healing" by Ian White
ISBN-10: 073380
Yahoo email group discussing Australian Bush Flower Essences
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ABFEstudy/
You might consider ADD-care which is the only natural supplement alternative to the stimulants that have been shown to rival the results of adderall in SPECT brain scans and the Conner's impulsivity test at the Amen Clinic.
http://www.add-care.com