I recently started taking Ritalin LA but didn't realize it reacts with citric acid. I since have tried cutting it out of my diet, but so many foods contain it! I am concerned also about vitamin C deficiency. When is it okay to consume foods with citric acid? What are some healthy foods that don't contain it? When should a multivitamin be taken? I have read that citric acid is okay an hour after medication dosage, but am skeptical. Won't it interfere with the second dose of med? I am also taking 1200 mgs. of fish oil with meals after reading Dr. Hallowell's book, but it increases dopamine production (as the med does). I worry about overdoing it. I worry about everything though! Help, please! Thanks!
Actually it doesn't interact with acidic things like vitamin C if you don't take them at the same time. I've been suggested by a pharmacist that you have it 2 hours before your med or 4 after your last dosage (i.e. later in the night). It will decrease the effect so you don't want to take it together when you need it.
Citrus won't ever hurt you when taken with it but will just cut your dose. However antacids are a big no-no as it will increase the dose in unpredictable ways.
Fish oil is up for debate on how much it helps (many here think a lot) but natural remedies like this could not increase natural dopamine to any level that could hurt you. I'd think you are reasonably safe taking the alternatives without any hand wringing.
Thank you! Last night I had a big glass of OJ about an hour before bed and I guess I'll make that a routine. I didn't know about the antacids, I'm glad you added that. I'm also trying to avoid preservatives and food additives, I'm going organic! Thanks again.
I take my vitamins in day and thyroid with water at 10pm so no interferences happen. I use Melaleuca 's antacid instead when needed. It has this.
chamomille
fennel
ginger
I have a bad stomach and have to take antacids alot - even while on Adderall. It doesn't seem to have any effect at all. I think possibly that the Calcium antacids like Tums may not affect things as much. Ususally when drugs are indicated to be done without antacids - its Magnesium or Aluminum antacids that are the culprit.