Hi -
Does anyone know of an OTC or other easily-obtained (and legal) med/supplement, etc., that has the same, or almost the same effects of Ritalin?
I have been on Rit for over a year now, and it is great! By my dosage (very high) only lasts for 2 -2 1/2 hours. (I HATE the time released one, I like the control of the shorter one. Don't ask. :->) So, lately work has demanded 10 - 12 hour days, so I am running out of the pills and am afraid I won't have enough until my next refill.
SO... am looking for something that I could subsititute that would at least tie me over and then I can save my Ritalin for when I know I really need it. For instance, during the work day I really really need it, but after 6, when the office is quiet, something else could suffice when there are fewer distractions. However, I still need something or I won't get anything done.
I hope this makes sense!!! Thanks!!!
Spacegal
Spacegal,
I tried Concerta and it didn't have the same affect as Ritalin ( I do understand what you mean) so I took it for 8 years. My doctor asked me if I tried Ritalin LA, I tried it for me it works well. I get the same affect as taking Ritalin every 4 hours. I take 60 mg in the am. I have never heard of an over the counter remedy.
Tamara
My son who is 15 cannot take any of the ADHD meds because they upset his stomach so bad. So he has been going without for years which is a struggle for him as well as the rest of the family. The last time we were at his doctor's for a check-up I had brought up a concern about these energy drinks that the kids are drinking and would they make him more hyper if he would to drink them. He said that energy drinks have a reverse effect on people with ADD/ADHD. It actually has a calming effect on the brain and in return makes you able to concentrate better. Soooooo, I tried this with my son and the doctor was right. Where my son was so opinionated and argumentative with confrontation, he now can listen and pay attenion and figure things out in a very calm way (to an extent). The brands my son drinks are Monster and Bawls. I am sure any of the energy drinks have the same effect but don't qoute me on it. He only has one a day, I think most brands tell you to drink 1-2 in a 24 hour period. I notice that they give him more energy, but it is a productive energy rather than destructive or pent up energy.
I am not saying this is for everyone, especially small children. But this is something that works for my son. I say if it works, go with it. Anyone reading this I would suggest speaking with the childs doctor before giving any type of energy drink. I am not a doctor, I am not promoting this as a quick fix or cheaper fix. I am only saying this because it works for my teenage son.