Adderall Users | ADHD Information
Istuart,
I am confused about Adderall. I am 37 yrs old and about 6 wks ago I finally went to a Dr to find out what is wrong with me (after much encouragement from my best friend). About 1 yr ago I was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and put on Zelnorm & Wellbutrin to help w/stress. So, when I went to the Dr. I spilled out my guts and she diagnosed me w/General Anxiety Disorder & ADHD. The Wellbutrin was making me worse. With the anxiety I get panic attacks & obsessive compulsiveness. So, she took me off the Wellbutrin and put me on Lexapro. I call it my "happy pill", since taking it there is a big difference in my behavior & I actually sleep at night. I went back & saw her 3 wks later & she wanted me to try Adderall, 5mg in the am for 6 days to see if I can feel when I come down off of it and then on day 8 start taking the 5mg in the am & between 4-6 hrs later another 5mg for the next 8 day. Well, I never saw an effect with the 5mg. So, on day 9, I started taking 10mg at 9am & 5mg at 2pm. Its been 6 days & not really any difference. I still dont know when I come down off the med. I went & saw her today & I told her what I've been doing for the past 6 days & that I wanted to increase to 20mg in the am & 10 in the afternoon but the Dr "told me to stay with the 10mg in the am & increase my afternoon dosage to 10mg for the next 3 wks" then come back & see her for evaluation.
Here's my thing:
1) I still drink 16oz of coffee in the am & 8oz around 4pm when I start getting sleepy to help get the awake feeling even on the meds (10mg). It seems the coffee helps to increase the effect of the meds. If I am drinking that much coffee to help shouldnt I increase my meds? Doesnt that mean I need a stronger dose? Because of insurance, she doesnt want me to try the XR.
2) How am I suspose to know that the Adderall is working? I can tell the Lexapro is working but not the Adderall.
3) I eat healthy & exercise.
I'm trying to read this book "Women with Attention Deficit Disorder" by Sari Solden. I'm finding it very helpful.
Any suggestions? I'm confused and happy at the same time for finally finding out what is wrong with me after being this way my entire life.
Thanks
Roll Tide -
I'm 33 yrs. old and was diagnosed w/ ADD last June.
I've taken adderall for the majority of this past year. At this point, I take 30 mg 3x a day, which is a very high dosage. While my concentration is great, I metabolize the drug rapidly. It doesn't matter if I take 30, 45, 60mg at one time, my focus only lasts for ~ 2 hours.
Having been on Adderall this long I do have some tips or advice. I'll number them, since it is hard for us ADD'ers to read large paragraphs!
1) You may want to try taking a higher dose in the morning followed by a smaller dose in the afternoon.
2) Caffiene & Citrus juice does make a difference - they decreases the absorption of the drug into your system. Either stop drinking caffiene/juice, OR drink them in the morning PRIOR to taking your meds [could still effect you], OR switch to decaf coffee.
3) Eat (especially breakfast) before you take your meds.
4) Diet does matter - fatty/sugary foods can agitate you (as does caffiene). A healthier diet is key. When I started taking Adderall I needed larger quantities of protein (still do).
5) Exercise does matter - it helps to relax you and get rid of any "residual" agitation from taking such a high dosage.
6) Other meds you could try are Ritalin or Strattera.
7) You may have to combine another drug/supplement with a stimulant for the best results.
8) Try to be patient, which I know is hard for ADD'ers. It may take you a few months to find the right med at the right dosage. I'm STILL working on trying to find the right combo of meds (currently on Adderall & Effexor).
9) READ, read, read as much as you can on ADD. The more informed you are the more productive your dr. visits will be. I suggest getting the book: "Healing ADD...... the 6 types of ADD" by Daniel Amen. It gives you a good break down of the meds available.
Good luck and keep us posted.
jaime
I'm 33 and was diagnosed about a year ago. I started taking 20mgs 2x a day, now I take 20 mgs 3-4x a day, depending on my needs. I don't have any of the side effects you describe. Sounds like you need to try a different med. Everyone responds to meds differently.
Thanks for the suggestion I tend to agree with you. I have spoken with my doctor but he wants me to try this a little longer.
I was diagonised with Adult ADD about 2 months ago. I am 45 years old. I started out taking 20mg 3 times a day. After one month they increased my dosage from 20 to 30 and I have not seen any significant improvement. If anything I get agitated, depressed, mean, and extremely lazy. I have not lost my appetite and go to bed around 8:00 p.m. everynight. I really would like to know if anyone else has the problem and what they did about it. This is my first time to use any type of message board.[QUOTE=lstuart] 2) Caffiene & Citrus juice does make a difference- they decreases the absorption of the drug into your system. Either
stop drinking caffiene/juice, OR drink them in the morning PRIOR to
taking your meds [could still effect you], OR switch to decaf coffee.
3) Eat (especially breakfast) before you take your meds.
jaime
[/QUOTE]
Jaime,
just a couple questions about the two points I've quoted.
[It is my almost 7 year old who is on Adderall, currently 15 mg XR]
1) are your comments about citrus juices mainly to do with regular
Adderall, or have you found this to be so with XR too? Is this fairly
general, or a YMMV type of thing? (Caffeine is not an issue for him at
this point)
2) We have been having him take the pill on waking up; even so it
takes awhile for the meds to take effect and until then he is fairly
difficult to deal with. Does eating first lead to better result from the
med later, or does that advice have to do more with loss of appetite
(which we *aren't* having a problem with)?
Thanks for any further insight you or anyone else can offer on these
points.
CJ I have been taking Adderall for about a year. I am 38 and have been through a few different drugs over the last 5 years. Adderall definately helps me with my focus, but my Physician explained that it alone is not a complete treatment for some forms of ADD (ie: perhaps it can be augmented by welbutrin).
CJ -
I take regular Adderall, not XR, but the citrus juice comment holds for both types of meds. Yes, it is a fairly general comment, but I think it is true for most people on the drug. I don't drink citric juices, but w/ coffee it does increase stimulation, but leads to agitation and possibly hyperfocus.
As for eating before taking your meds, breakfast is really the only meal I make sure I eat before taking my meds. Even if it is a breakfast bar. I have taken my meds w/out eating breakfast and I tend to be more anxious/jittery. Also, my focus doesn't tend to last as long.
Hopes this helps.
J
dtsjor -
Based on my own experience it seems that you need a higher dose of Adderall. If you're taking Adderall and it is working, you will KNOW that it is working. Your Dr. is more than likely playing it safe by trying to find the minimal amount of Adderall that will work for you. It is a controlled substance, so Drs. are careful about it (should be anyway).
Having said that, Adderall does not "build up" in your system - you metabolize it and after so many hours it is out of your system. So, the only reason I can think that the Dr. wants to keep you on the same dose for the next three weeks is to see if Lexapro will "kick in" a bit more and help your focus as well. If you've been on Lexapro for more than a month then the former comment really doesn;t apply.
Considering that you "need" coffee in the late afternoon to keep you awake I would say you need a higher dose. The recommended maximum daily dose of Adderall is 60 mg.
good luck and keep us posted.
Actually I'm pretty sure adderall DOES build up in your system. (That's why it can be detected in a drug screen) and takes about 3-4 days to flush.
Re: Adderall XR. I thought that Adderall should be thought of as more of a situational drug, and that the extended release version was less effective than taking as needed within the range of your script. Also, had does this offset the Welbutrin issues? Any thoughts would be appreciated.I highly suggest switching to Adderall XR.I found out from my friend who is a Dr that there is a difference between the generic forms of these meds vs the real thing. Some has to do w/insurance not approving the real stuff & the cost to the consumer. Since the generic Adderall wasn't working & I was extremely fustrated on 10mg/twice a day that wasnt working.
I called the pharmacy & I was approved for the real Adderall from my insurance co. So, instead of calling my Dr & harrassing her, I'm going to try the real Adderall 10mg/twice day until I see her next week to see if it works since the generic wasnt.
My Dr's plan next week when I see her was to get the insurance company to approve the real Adderall XR. But if the short acting works using the real stuff then there might no reason to change to the XR. If the 10mg doesnt work then maybe she can increase my dosage. Then I guess after that I could accept changing to a different medication.
But a least I'm trying the real stuff. My dr friend says that the most I should be taking is 30mg/day. I know from my friend the pharmacist the most a person should be taking is 60mg/day.
Any thoughts? Any advice?
Thanks
[QUOTE=RollTide]I was diagonised with Adult ADD about 2 months ago. I am 45 years old. I started out taking 20mg 3 times a day. After one month they increased my dosage from 20 to 30 and I have not seen any significant improvement. If anything I get agitated, depressed, mean, and extremely lazy. I have not lost my appetite and go to bed around 8:00 p.m. everynight. I really would like to know if anyone else has the problem and what they did about it. This is my first time to use any type of message board.[/QUOTE]
May I ask what kind,..you are taking? Is it the "brand" or a generic? I just posted a post that I received a new generic yesterday that made me very sick,..and Im taking it back to my doctor today..(the whole bottle) to get a new script so I can get my regular blue tablets. Im sick of these fillers they put in these generics.
It would help to know what your ID on your pill says do to who makes it. If its brand, thats the real adderall, if its generic...then you dont know what you are taking due to the fillers. Some fillers dont agree with everybody.
bump againbump,bump,bump [QUOTE=sheri.m]bump,bump,bump[/QUOTE]"So, if you like to go bump bump! Then hop on the hump of the Wump of Gump!"
John,
I am 37 & just diagnosed w/ADHD about 7 wks ago along w/OCD & General Anxiety Disorder but that goes w/ADHD. Anyway back on the subject, for the 1st 3 wks I was put on Lexapro which helped for the anxiety, then she put me on generic adderall 5mg once a day then bumped it up to twice a day. NOTHING HAPPENED! I went back last Tues & she bumped me up to 10mg twice a day. NOTHING HAS HAPPENED! I'm a nurse so I talked to my Dr friend who is an neuronologist & I'm not on the right dosage. So, today on Tues, July 5th I'm going to call her & ask for regular Adderall not generic & the XR 25-30mg. He also said that you will know when its working + you will be happier.
Since, impatience is part of this disorder & like you I'm getting very fustrasted with not being able to find the right dosage. I'm not necessary looking for a quick fix but I want to start to be able to start functioning like the rest of the human population.
Since you know your body better than anybody else be your own advocate.
Sorry for the rambling.
My son, (6 years old) started on Adderall XR this weekend. He is on the lowest dosage, and it was a busy weekend, so its hard to tell what effect this is having. He did seem a bit more emotional about 2 hours after taking the Adderall. But again, this could have been from all of the extra activity in the house. Today is his first day at summer camp on any kind of medication. So, I am hoping all goes well.....
[QUOTE=lstuart]
Roll Tide -
I'm 33 yrs. old and was diagnosed w/ ADD last June.
I've taken adderall for the majority of this past year. At this point, I take 30 mg 3x a day, which is a very high dosage. While my concentration is great, I metabolize the drug rapidly. It doesn't matter if I take 30, 45, 60mg at one time, my focus only lasts for ~ 2 hours.
Having been on Adderall this long I do have some tips or advice. I'll number them, since it is hard for us ADD'ers to read large paragraphs!
1) You may want to try taking a higher dose in the morning followed by a smaller dose in the afternoon.
2) Caffiene & Citrus juice does make a difference - they decreases the absorption of the drug into your system. Either stop drinking caffiene/juice, OR drink them in the morning PRIOR to taking your meds [could still effect you], OR switch to decaf coffee.
3) Eat (especially breakfast) before you take your meds.
4) Diet does matter - fatty/sugary foods can agitate you (as does caffiene). A healthier diet is key. When I started taking Adderall I needed larger quantities of protein (still do).
5) Exercise does matter - it helps to relax you and get rid of any "residual" agitation from taking such a high dosage.
6) Other meds you could try are Ritalin or Strattera.
7) You may have to combine another drug/supplement with a stimulant for the best results.
8) Try to be patient, which I know is hard for ADD'ers. It may take you a few months to find the right med at the right dosage. I'm STILL working on trying to find the right combo of meds (currently on Adderall & Effexor).
9) READ, read, read as much as you can on ADD. The more informed you are the more productive your dr. visits will be. I suggest getting the book: "Healing ADD...... the 6 types of ADD" by Daniel Amen. It gives you a good break down of the meds available.
Good luck and keep us posted.
jaime
[/QUOTE] [QUOTE=letterman][QUOTE=lstuart]
Roll Tide -
I'm 33 yrs. old and was diagnosed w/ ADD last June.
I've taken adderall for the majority of this past year. At this point, I take 30 mg 3x a day, which is a very high dosage. While my concentration is great, I metabolize the drug rapidly. It doesn't matter if I take 30, 45, 60mg at one time, my focus only lasts for ~ 2 hours.
Having been on Adderall this long I do have some tips or advice. I'll number them, since it is hard for us ADD'ers to read large paragraphs!
1) You may want to try taking a higher dose in the morning followed by a smaller dose in the afternoon.
2) Caffiene & Citrus juice does make a difference - they decreases the absorption of the drug into your system. Either stop drinking caffiene/juice, OR drink them in the morning PRIOR to taking your meds [could still effect you], OR switch to decaf coffee.
3) Eat (especially breakfast) before you take your meds.
4) Diet does matter - fatty/sugary foods can agitate you (as does caffiene). A healthier diet is key. When I started taking Adderall I needed larger quantities of protein (still do).
5) Exercise does matter - it helps to relax you and get rid of any "residual" agitation from taking such a high dosage.
6) Other meds you could try are Ritalin or Strattera.
7) You may have to combine another drug/supplement with a stimulant for the best results.
8) Try to be patient, which I know is hard for ADD'ers. It may take you a few months to find the right med at the right dosage. I'm STILL working on trying to find the right combo of meds (currently on Adderall & Effexor).
9) READ, read, read as much as you can on ADD. The more informed you are the more productive your dr. visits will be. I suggest getting the book: "Healing ADD...... the 6 types of ADD" by Daniel Amen. It gives you a good break down of the meds available.
Good luck and keep us posted.
jaime
[/QUOTE] [/QUOTE]
Hello,
I'm 56 yrs old and was diagnosed ADHD about 6 months ago and put on straterra............I felt it was working at first but it sort of fizzled out........Increased the dosage with no improvement...............Thats when I asked to try Ritalin but he put me on adderall slow release......I feel there has been an improvement in focus and I am starting to be able to chanel my energy into long over due home repairs, lawn maintenance, etc.
However i still have days, sometimes multiple days, that I feel it's not helping at all..............I feel it's the right medicine but I don't think I'm at the right dosage and I wonder if the "straight-up" version as opposed to the slow release wouldn't be better.......I'm on 10mg slow release once a day.........I read where a 7 year old little girl was on the same dosage..............It just don't seem like enough..............Can someone tell me how you know when your at the right dose. How can you tell when your as good as your going to get or if more would even be better....................I think I've been ADHD just about my entire life without even knowing it..........I've read on these boards that feeling better with todays meds is possible for everyone.............What do you all think?????? I guess I'm looking for any advice, opinions or anything else you can throw at me....I've been this way far too long!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I should add I've only been on the adderall for 30 days...............I see my doctor(psychiatrist) on 7/6/05 so I'm looking for quick advice....Oh Yeah I am also on 100mg Zoloft daily........
Thanx........................John &nb sp; &nb sp; &nb sp;
Brief intro - Hi, I'm new here, but OLD to ADHD, ADD...
Some of my kids got my ADD, the adult kids are doing amazing things, running companies, doing consult or contract computer work, the one still at home is 14, so still in school, and despite the 157 IQ, and IEP, getting barely passing grades (homework related). We both just switched from Concerta ER to Adderall XR - mainly for the additional time (he- homework, me- his homework) we'd get with Adderall when school starts next month. He was on 45mg of Concerta ER (read one 18 and one 27 = two copays), I was on 72mg. We were both started on 20mg of the Adderall 5 days ago. For my son we've noticed three changes, he says he feels happier, he sleeps better at night, BUT he also sleeps a lot of during day too. For myself I don't feel like I'm as focused, and I'm more fatigued. I have a call into the Psychiatrist, but since this isn't life threatening and he's VERY busy, a call back could be days away.
I appreciate any feedback anyone can offer... THANKS!!
[QUOTE=addexec]Just reading some of the nutrition stuff on this thread.
I know nothing about nutrition, but I'd like to learn.
Why do you need more protein on Adderall?
A friend told me to avoid things made with white sugar or white flour. Is that true? If so, how come?
Does Adderall affect metabolism or just suppress appetite?
Thanks, sorry for the rapid fire questions.
[/QUOTE]Yes, you are correct, avoid sugars...not sure about white flour. Eat eat eat and eat lots of protein! Once again, I'm not sure why but that is what doctors and psychiatrist say to eat, it helps ADD for some reason. Adderall XR does supress appetite and you won't eat as much, that is also why you should eat more protein because if you don't eat as much you want it to be good food, not junk like grease and sugar. I have lost about 20lbs on Adderall XR, but I'm not complaining!
Just reading some of the nutrition stuff on this thread.
I know nothing about nutrition, but I'd like to learn.
Why do you need more protein on Adderall?
A friend told me to avoid things made with white sugar or white flour. Is that true? If so, how come?
Does Adderall affect metabolism or just suppress appetite?
Thanks, sorry for the rapid fire questions.
Hello,
I am new to the message board. I have taken concetra, ritalin and now have been on adderall 20 mg time release for the past 2 years. Just recently my Dr. wanted me to try focalin 20 mg. time release...I have tried it for the last 3 days. The first day was great, the second day was okay, but I felt as if I my head was in a other world. Yesterday, I started out okay, but after 4 hours, I found it difficult to be around people. I started to become extremely aggitated and very impatient. Maybe I was going through a withdrawl from the adderall, or maybe I had a really bad reaction to the focalin. Has anyone experienced anything like this before. I am an adult female.
[QUOTE=cornflakegirl]My husband just started the XR, I am wondering...are there general signs you have too much medication vs not enough.....?
thanks,
[/QUOTE]
My son's Psychiatrist said Adderol is one for one with Concerta. He just bumped my son up to 30mg, and says we'll probably go up again next month. MY Dr just bumped me up to 25mg and I KNOW it's not enough .... but need another month of "trying" it before I can go up.
I don't know if there are any "general signs", but I feel that if we're not focusing as well as we want to be it's not enough. (I had my son clean his closet as a "test", since school hasn't started yet. For me I just KNOW if I'm focused or not --- and right now I'm SO not!!
[QUOTE=adhdeaf]My psy is finally convinced that Strattera doesnt work well for me. So he prescribed me Addrell XR yesterday (Thursday)- I was sorta anxious because I need something to help me out - but I have not gotten the new Rx because the insurance requests for the psychiatrist to directly contact the insurance and answer some answers. Doh! However my psy usually doesnt work on fridays and he was not working today. (groan) I hafta wait til Monday for the psy to call the stupid insurance. Then, the insurance will inform me whether it is authorized in 24 hours. So I am told. 
Anyone experiencing the same stupid "redtape" process?
This weekend is gonna be loooong...
[/QUOTE]
OH yeah!!!
It was pretty quick for our Dr to get a hold of ins, and my pharmacy said I could pay for the meds and get reimbursed as soon as they got work back from ins. (THANK GOD for Master Card!!) It took a few days, but I had the credit on my card LONG before the payment was due.
Once ins has approved the meds you never have to go through this (for THIS med) again.
GOOD LUCK!!
Thanks! Hopefully tomorrow then. Loong weekend so far.
[QUOTE=cornflakegirl]
My husband just started the XR, I am wondering...are there general signs you have too much medication vs not enough.....?
thanks,
[/QUOTE]
I haven't tried the XR, but i've had regular adderall and ritalin. When I've had too much medication, the feeling is very similar to having waaaay too much coffee (a difficult achievement for my body!). I feel jittery, slightly agitated, talk a lot, things like that.
As for not enough medication....it feels as if you're driving your brain in 2nd gear. You're stepping on the gas, the engine is making a lot of noise, but you're still going very slowly....
Those are my experiences--everyone reacts so differently. Listen to your body and how you feel.
[QUOTE=dtsjor]Istuart,
I am confused about Adderall. I am 37 yrs old and about 6 wks ago I finally went to a Dr to find out what is wrong with me (after much encouragement from my best friend). About 1 yr ago I was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and put on Zelnorm & Wellbutrin to help w/stress. So, when I went to the Dr. I spilled out my guts and she diagnosed me w/General Anxiety Disorder & ADHD. The Wellbutrin was making me worse. With the anxiety I get panic attacks & obsessive compulsiveness. So, she took me off the Wellbutrin and put me on Lexapro. I call it my "happy pill", since taking it there is a big difference in my behavior & I actually sleep at night. I went back & saw her 3 wks later & she wanted me to try Adderall, 5mg in the am for 6 days to see if I can feel when I come down off of it and then on day 8 start taking the 5mg in the am & between 4-6 hrs later another 5mg for the next 8 day. Well, I never saw an effect with the 5mg. So, on day 9, I started taking 10mg at 9am & 5mg at 2pm. Its been 6 days & not really any difference. I still dont know when I come down off the med. I went & saw her today & I told her what I've been doing for the past 6 days & that I wanted to increase to 20mg in the am & 10 in the afternoon but the Dr "told me to stay with the 10mg in the am & increase my afternoon dosage to 10mg for the next 3 wks" then come back & see her for evaluation.
Here's my thing:
1) I still drink 16oz of coffee in the am & 8oz around 4pm when I start getting sleepy to help get the awake feeling even on the meds (10mg). It seems the coffee helps to increase the effect of the meds. If I am drinking that much coffee to help shouldnt I increase my meds? Doesnt that mean I need a stronger dose? Because of insurance, she doesnt want me to try the XR.
2) How am I suspose to know that the Adderall is working? I can tell the Lexapro is working but not the Adderall.
3) I eat healthy & exercise.
[/QUOTE]
One thing you should know since you have IBS - I have developed IBS (my doc tells me) since taking dexedrine. He says it's showing up now as it does cause contractions of the smooth muscles in the body. If I don't nibble all day I can cramp up badly.
You may want to try dexedrine spansules over adderal as it's as effective for many as adderal XR and insurance companies seem to allow it as often as the non extended varieties. Mine certainly had no problem.
Watch coffee too - I've been told to watch my intake as it's been known to constipate, start spasms and other lovely intestinal troubles. Just monitor how you feel.
I'm finding no OCD at all since taking the dexedrine. I used to be self-checking all the time - door locked, water off etc. I do tend to over-watch my nails (manicuring them probably too often), but I think it's fascination at not chewing them as I did.
Hope I helped a bit. Good luck friend!
Glen
I am finally on Addrell XR. Will let you know how it fares..Hope it improve my behaviors.
My husband just started the XR, I am wondering...are there general signs you have too much medication vs not enough.....?
thanks,
My psy is finally convinced that Strattera doesnt work well for me. So he prescribed me Addrell XR yesterday (Thursday)- I was sorta anxious because I need something to help me out - but I have not gotten the new Rx because the insurance requests for the psychiatrist to directly contact the insurance and answer some answers. Doh! However my psy usually doesnt work on fridays and he was not working today. (groan)
I hafta wait til Monday
for the psy to call the stupid insurance. Then, the insurance will
inform me whether it is authorized in 24 hours. So I am told. Anyone experiencing the same stupid "redtape" process?
This weekend is gonna be loooong...
[QUOTE=shellr]I wanted to ask about the Cymbalta as I am stuck taking Dexedrine until the Canadian Gov't sees fit to allow me to have Adderall again. What were you taking before and are there any obvious side effects?
[/QUOTE]
As far as I can tell I don't have any side effects with the Cymbalta (had to add "as far as I can tell" because after living with side effects for so long I'm not sure what's "me" and what's a "side effect" anymore)
Most recently I was on Lexapro, in the past 15 years I've tried Effexor, Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, and Wellbutrin alone. (I take Wellbutrin with the Cymbalta now) I never felt totally whole with any of them. With all but the Wellbutrin I gained TONS of weight (not literally, it just felt like "TONS" to me) had insomnia, dry mouth, decreased sex drive, lightheaded (but not severe), and constant fatigue (but couldn't sleep). Cymbalta is the first one that's made me feel "real" (I can't think of a better description) I feel like I imagine people without depression feel, none of the others made me feel "real".
My insurance company (Aetna) had to be convinced I needed the Cymbalta, I had to list all the antidepressants I've ever tried and why they didn't work (I just said "they didn't work" I didn't have time to go into detail with them). I guess it's more expensive than the others and since it's new, no generic. They did approve it - and I don't have to "check in" with them again.
Cymbalta was just approved in 2004 (U.S. FDA; European Union) The Cymbalta website is http://www.cymbalta.com/index.jsp it's made by Lilly.
Good luck....
HelloIf you have money, perhaps get med to keep BP down? I am also taking the med for that (Norvasc) - I am on AXR but I already have High BP all along and my doc said it is ok to take AXR as long as I am on med for High BP.
Hi All,
I'd really like to read this entire thread, but you know.. ADD.
Okay... if someone can help me, Im having a hard time staying focused.
I am 30 years old (31 in a week or two) and was diagnoised with ADD about 2 years ago. I first started talking Ritalin or Concerta and it really didn't seem to do a whole lot. I'd take it when I had something to really focus on, but outside of that I really didn't notice much. I got a new doctor when I ran out of that and he put me on Adderal XR. It has been a life changer. I am taking 30mg and went in the other day to see about getting 40 or whatever. I have had almost no side effects (after the first two weeks), except for my Blood Pressure. It just keeps going up. I had never really monitored by BP before, but since I have been on it, I have always been like 127/80 range but has crept up over the last 4 months where right now it's around 130/90. My doctor said I needed to go get a physical and would not give me higher doses until the BP issue got nailed out.
Well, I stopped taking it that day and wanted to see if it was the meds or somethign else. Every day I have taken it, it has been 12x/77, a LOT lower than before. No matter which time of day I take it.
What are the side effects to going off of Adderall XR. I am going to miss this medication. My life has changed, I wish I could have had it back when I was in school, many years ago. I have been terribly sleepy sicne I stopped taking it and going to bed an hour rearlier than normal. How long is this going to last?
I also notice I can't sit and read long threads like this one, so hopefully those of you on the drug can summarize what you have read for me. I hate being that way, but could use some help.
My only drug left appears to be Stratera, but doubt its going to work. But, you never know.
Here's a funny story...
I went and hung out with a friend a few weeks ago. She handed me 5 pills of Adderall, told me they were 10 mg. Whatever - Adderall has never worked for me in college during paper time, why should it now? It ended up eating 50 mg of Adderall XR and I was a normal human being for the next 12 hours. Amazing. Truly. I just felt...fine. Like I had been in this weird haze my whole life and I didn't even notice. I was motivated, organized. You know the story.
So that's how I first figured out I might have ADD.
Anyway, I went to a doctor and just got a prescription generic 10 mg "Adderall" tablets and...they suck. He told me to take 10mg - which did absolutely nothing. I've taken 50 mg so far and I'm just frustrated. I feel a just a little hot, achy and my heart's beating faster, but I'm not motivated like I was on the Adderall XR. I certainly don't feel 'focused' on anything but sitting down and not doing anything, which has been par for the past many years.
Has anyone here noticed a considerable difference between the brand name Adderall and the generic (mixed amphetamine salts)?
First day being on XR and so far not much to notice yet..
just more energetic and my legs fidgets much less.
does anyone know if you can take adderall xr,paxil cr,and wellbutrin xl at the same time? i am new here,and would appreciate your help. thanks. i have been taking adderall xr for about 6 months,and i need to get on an anti anxiety med also. thanks
[QUOTE=dj6217]hello,
does anyone know if you can take adderall xr,paxil cr,and wellbutrin xl at the same time? i am new here,and would appreciate your help. thanks. i have been taking adderall xr for about 6 months,and i need to get on an anti anxiety med also. thanks[/QUOTE]
I take Adderal XR with Wellbutrin XL and Cimbalta (a new antidepressant which is AWESOME!!) and have had no problems with the mix. My son takes Adderal XR with Luvox with no problems.
Thx for all the input--I think I'm just plain sick with a cold because I guess antibiotics can't cure a cold so having been taking them wouldn't have mattered & also cause my tooth doesn't hurt anymore. I'm sleepy--and I have yet to take my meds because I know I only get one dose per day so I guess i'm saving it for later. Last night Dac said not yet for upping my Rx. And no Non-XR.
WOW, SORRY YOU HAVE ALL THAT GOING ON RIGHT NOW. I CAN UNDERSTAND WHY THE ADDERALL XR MIGHT NOT BE WORKING FOR YOU AS GOOD RIGHT NOW. SEEMS LIKE YOU SHOULD BE ON A BIT HIGHER DOSE. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT A GOOD ANTIDEPRESSANT WOULD BE TO TAKE,THAT WILL WORK WELL WITH ADDERALL XR??? HOW ABOUT ZOLOFT? GOOD LUCK TO YOU! HAV A GREAT DAY![QUOTE=terrie]Thx for the input/feedback. I definitely believe I have a sinus headache as opposed to a regular headache. I'm even considering the possibility of a sinus infection because the Sinus Headache Sudafed are not working and they always work fast. I just find it ironic that I'm on antibiotics (Amoxicillin) for a root canal infection (& pre-medication--I have a hip replacement) and so I definitely don't understand how on earth I could have gotten a sinus infection. It hurts to blink!!![/QUOTE]
Well there you go - that is the source of your pain. You might not have a sinus infection, just the inefection in the toot, or pressure from the root canal.
Also not all antibiotics work the same on all infections.
Thx for the input/feedback. I definitely believe I have a sinus headache as opposed to a regular headache. I'm even considering the possibility of a sinus infection because the Sinus Headache Sudafed are not working and they always work fast. I just find it ironic that I'm on antibiotics (Amoxicillin) for a root canal infection (& pre-medication--I have a hip replacement) and so I definitely don't understand how on earth I could have gotten a sinus infection. It hurts to blink!!![QUOTE=dj6217] I HAVE BEEN TAKING ADDERALL XR NOW FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS. AT FIRST,I WAS TAKING 15 MG.IN THE A.M.,AND 15 MG. AROUND 4 P.M. THAT REALLY DID NOT SEEM TO HELP MUCH. SO MY DR. UPPED ME TO 30 MG TWICE A DAY.
I TAKE ONE AROUND 7:00 A. M., AND THE OTHER AROUND 1:00 P.M. THAT WORKS MUCH BETTER FOR ME.
I THINK I NEED AN EXTRA 20 MG. SOMETIME DURING THE DAY. I WILL DISCUSS THAT WITH MY DR. WHEN I GO BACK AGAIN SOON. DOES ANYONE KNOW OF ANY OTHER MEDICATION THAT IS AS GOOD AS ADDERALL XR? AND WHAT ABOUT TAKING ANOTHER MEDICATION DURING THE DAY FOR DEPRESSION? HAS ANYONE HERE BEEN TAKING ADDERALL XR 30 MG,TWICE A DAY,AND AN ANTIDEPRESSANT TOO? WHAT ABOUT ZOLOFT? IF ANYONE IS HAVING GOOD RESULTS FROM ZOLOFT,PLEASE LET ME KNOW. I DON'T TAKE IT,BUT AM THINKING ABOUT TRYING IT ALONG WITH ADDERALL XR. THANKS[/QUOTE]
I have been taking adderall XR 60 mg/day. I just found out from doctor that I was supposed to be taking 1-30 mg twice a day rather than all at once Opps! I am taking the adderall correctly now and we have added 150 mg of bupropion in the moring and after a few days I am supposed to take a another 150 mg in the afternoon. I have no complaints so far. We are going to see how this combo works over the next several weeks and see if we need to tweek the adderall a bit.
Shaggy38590.5464351852Then why in the heck is my doctor telling me that 2O mg is an appropriate dosage daily (I'm only on 15 per day)--I don't understand--are there different references they use or what?
I would venture a guess that your doc does not want you going from higher dose to higher dose, sometimes they try to keep your dose low so when you have to up it you won't already be taking so much. They are concerned about addictive habits etc. I have the same issue with my doc though I really like him. I can see the look on his face when I mention dose. When I can get my hands on the Adderall RX again, (not on the shelves yet) he has me down for 1st week at 10, then second week at 15mg. a day. If I feel the need I will up it for a couple of days and go tell him and fight for the increased dose if I really feel I have to have it but I hope not. I would rather start low if I can still get the benefit. I take Wellbutrin 300mg. a day w/the dexedrine and when I was taking the Adderall RX and that was fine.THAT'S GREAT THAT WELLBUTRIN WORKS GOOD FOR YOU. IT DID NOT FOR ME. THE ADDERALL XR IS GREAT...BUT AM TRYING TO FIND AN ANTIDEPRESSANT THAT GOES ALONG WELL WITH IT. PAXIL...THAT'S A BIG TIME WEIGHT GAINER. HAS ANYONE TAKEN ADDERALL XR WITH ZOLOFT,OR ANY OTHER A.D. THAT WORKS GOOD FOR THEM WHILE BEING ON ADDERALL XR???My son is 10 and has ADHD. He has been taking Adderol XR 20 mg in the morning and Focalin 10 mg @ 12pm and 3pm. This combination has done well for him, but he had to be put on Remron (I give it to him around 6, so that he will be ready to goto sleep around 8) at night to help with sleep and appetite. He is VERY cranky when he first gets up in the morning. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to help with the crankiness!?
Thanks for the help!!!!
Tear it up, Shock! I love a person who knows what they want/need/have to say.
dj6217--I know you're right--if it "ain't broke" & so forth. I should just be grateful. I was just wondering, truly, like say for instance, what percent od ADHDers are on anti-depressants--it seems like at least 7O%. Would you say that's accurate?
sabina: I'm sorry you're PMSing so badly--I never knew what that was like until I went off the Pill at age 39 & I now have the cramps of a thirteen year old, & I actually believe PMS does exist--you can see why I didn't for many years--ADHD & the Pill for two decades.
I CAN TELL A DIFFERANCEWHY DID THEY PUT YOU ON GENERIC? BECAUSE OF THE COST TO YOU,RIGHT? IT DID NOT WORK FOR ME EITHER A FEW MONTHS BACK. SO FOR A FEW MONTHS NOW I HAVE BEEN ON ADDERALL XR,30 MG. TWICE A DAY. COMPANY MAKES IT IS SHIRE. TELL YOUR DOC THAT THE GENERIC JUST DOES NOT WORK FOR YOU. IT CERTAINLY IS A BIG DIFFERENCE,YOU CAN REALLY NOTICE IT TOO. TAKE CARE. GOOD LUCK. LET US KNOW WHAT THE DOC SAYS! OH...TERRIE,A LOT OF PEOPLE ARE TAKING ANTI DEPRESSANTS TOO. DON'T WORRY,IF YA DON'T NEED IT! HAVE A GREAT DAY! Am I missing something (besides extra weight I don't want) since I'm not on anything else in conjunction with my Adderall XR? (like anti-depressants/non-anxiety meds, etc.) Also, what is "Adderall RX", as quoted above by Sabina? Please enlighten me--thx! terrie38642.4755902778TERRIE...I THINK IT'S MORE LIKE 85-90% THAT ARE ON SOME FORM OF ANTIDEPRESSANTS! WELL,I DID SEE ANOTHER DOC TODAY,SO NOW, I AM TAKING ADDERALL XR, XANAX,BUSPIRONE,AND SOMETIMES ATIVAN. WHEW,COULD I USE A FEW MORE??? WE'LL SEE. 
ok,thanks so much! i guess i will keep taking these.that cymbalta sounds great,i will ask my dr. about that too. seems like i already have my own little pharmacy...and i can't find anything that works well! what am i to do? oh well. dj ;
Cymbalta is a selective serotonin and norepineephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI), Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) so they're similar.
Cymbalta is failry new, and it's the best I've been on!!
I have been taking Wellbutrin, usually 300mg a day for 5 years and started Adderall, then Dexedrine about 6 months ago. My doctor says this is very common as so many ADD/ADHD people have various things to deal with, depression, anxiety, disorders etc. So, I don't think taking more than one med is an issue but a doctor should be doing the prescribing. Let me amend that, a good doctor.Hey, I Forgot
I wanted to ask about the Cymbalta as I am stuck taking Dexedrine until the Canadian Gov't sees fit to allow me to have Adderall again. What were you taking before and are there any obvious side effects?
Does the generic brand of Adderall work for ANYONE?????? I haven't started on mine yet but I looked on the bottle....and it's from Barr......It doesn't sound too positive............CASHi, for those of you who are not sure about the Adderall, I felt an extreme affect the first time I took it and that was 5/10mg. It was a huge change for my life, so....you should notice something different or try another med after some time S i wonder about paxil cr,is cimbalta like paxil cr? i have never heard of that anti depressant. thanks i still need answers about mixing all theses together.dtsjor: I'm on AdderallXR 15mg. only once a day in the morning & i can't wait until my Doctor lets me add a 2nd dose in the afternoon. I have to admit I snuck an extra yesterday & I felt great but today I have a SPLITTING headache & am not sure if that's what it's from, or if I just have a sinus infection. I've taken Sinus Headache Sudafed, when that didn't work I took some Advil, and when that didn't work I finally took a Vicodin, which I need to save for an upcoming root canal. I need relief--anyone know if this is from AdderallXR more than I'm used to?
I to have the same problem. I used to take adderallxr 20mlg 3x a day. I now take 60mg in the morning and 30 mg in the evening. But like you my appetite is a big as ever and i too go to sleep about 9. I used to take it when I lived in ohio and it worked wonders. I don't what has changed but it is not working the same now
Libra
THAT REALLY SHOUD NOT MATTER. I DON'T THINK YOUR HEADACHE IS FROM THE ADDERALL.I TAKE 30 MG. TWICE A DAY,AND I GET NO HEADACHES FROM THAT. LIKE I SAID,I THINK THAT I NEED A BIT MORE LATER IN THE DAY. I THINK THAT VICODIN GAVE YOU A HEADACHE!
I THINK THAT I REALLY SHOULD BE ON 60 MG. TWICE A DAY FOR THE ADDERALL XR. IT'S A GREAT MEDICATION. Like everyone here, I've been trying to find the right dose of Adderall. I've tried the generic & it didnt work, it was like taking sugar pills. I tried the Adderall short acting dosage from 5mg-30mg & it freaks me out. Makes my anxiety disorder 10x worse.
About 3 weeks ago I was put on Adderall 15mg XR & was finding out that wasnt enough, I'd lose focus & start falling asleep around 3. So, I tried to take 10mg of the short acting around 1 or 2 but that kept me up all night & still make me feel weird.
So, today, 3 days before I go back to my DR, I'm trying 15mg Adderall XR at 6:30am & 15mg Adderall XR at noon.
I know I shouldn't be playing with my meds but I'm trying to find out what works so I can tell my DR.
Personally, I love the Adderall XR but I need more than the 15mg. So, I dont know if taking 20mg or 25mg once a day will be enough or taking the 2) 15's.
Any thoughts?
I HAVE BEEN TAKING ADDERALL XR NOW FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS. AT FIRST,I WAS TAKING 15 MG.IN THE A.M.,AND 15 MG. AROUND 4 P.M. THAT REALLY DID NOT SEEM TO HELP MUCH. SO MY DR. UPPED ME TO 30 MG TWICE A DAY.
I TAKE ONE AROUND 7:00 A. M., AND THE OTHER AROUND 1:00 P.M. THAT WORKS MUCH BETTER FOR ME.
I THINK I NEED AN EXTRA 20 MG. SOMETIME DURING THE DAY. I WILL DISCUSS THAT WITH MY DR. WHEN I GO BACK AGAIN SOON. DOES ANYONE KNOW OF ANY OTHER MEDICATION THAT IS AS GOOD AS ADDERALL XR? AND WHAT ABOUT TAKING ANOTHER MEDICATION DURING THE DAY FOR DEPRESSION? HAS ANYONE HERE BEEN TAKING ADDERALL XR 30 MG,TWICE A DAY,AND AN ANTIDEPRESSANT TOO? WHAT ABOUT ZOLOFT? IF ANYONE IS HAVING GOOD RESULTS FROM ZOLOFT,PLEASE LET ME KNOW. I DON'T TAKE IT,BUT AM THINKING ABOUT TRYING IT ALONG WITH ADDERALL XR. THANKS
Okey-dokey, auntie--now I really must know what "bump up" means . . . ?
BTW, my 1- Rx of Adderall only cost me O- this time--yea!
Buspar (buspirone) is a mixed serotonin/ dopamine agonist that is useful in some individuals in treating chronic anxiety. No wonder I hated it--I need my anxiety, or I'd never get anything done. Thx, bard!
Generics can be bad, and here is why...
there are two types of generics, but I can't remember the names off the
top of my head. One version is made exactly as the brand name,
therefore, they are basically the exact same, however there can be "fillers"
added. I don't like that. The other version of generics doesn't have to
have the same chemical make-up, they just have to deliver the desired
effect and God knows what they put in there.
I'd much rather pay for the brand name and pay more then mess around
with generics. You pay for the name AND knowing that you are getting
the real thing.
and here is something interesting also:
http://www.snopes.com/medical/drugs/generic.aspbump up
Hi, I haven't post in a long while.....
My dr finally put me on Adderall XR 15mg once a day for 3 mons, Im on month 2 now & go back in Nov to see her. I resisted saying I needed more than the 15mg. I was on the short acting but she said I was jumpy. So, since I had a whole bottle of 20mg short acting, I've been self medicating. I take the XR 15mg at 8 & by 1 I find myself taking the 20mg SR to get me thru the afternoon period. I am able to go to be around 11 with no problem. I didnt take my Adderall for 2 days because I was sick so when I was feeling better on the 3rd day I took 2) 15mg XR. I got sick to my stomach by 3:00. Does anybody know why I can take the XR & the SR=25 but I cant tolerated the 30mg?
Im afraid when I go back in Nov to see her to tell her about me supplementing with the short acting. Any thoughts?
short release is a big burst right away - while the XR is half now - half in I think 3 or 4 hours. That might be it.
Are you taking any other meds that might alter the potency? Beta blockers, even pepto bismol and tums will make it a higher dose faster. Acid weakens, antacid strengthens. I had to go to dicetel for my touchy stomach and I'm glad I did.
Have you tried dexedrine? I have been great on it for almost a year now - and went from 10mg once or twice a day for 3 months, 20mg once to twice a day for 6 and vary now between 20 mgx2 and 30mgx2/day since. I take a "med vacation" one week long every 2 months - makes a big difference. I have had zero bad side effects like shakiness or hyperness since month one. Very good stuff - and the effects are all positive!
Bump up!Auntie38640.8294791667[QUOTE=dj6217]THAT'S GREAT THAT WELLBUTRIN WORKS GOOD FOR YOU. IT DID NOT FOR ME. THE ADDERALL XR IS GREAT...BUT AM TRYING TO FIND AN ANTIDEPRESSANT THAT GOES ALONG WELL WITH IT. PAXIL...THAT'S A BIG TIME WEIGHT GAINER. HAS ANYONE TAKEN ADDERALL XR WITH ZOLOFT,OR ANY OTHER A.D. THAT WORKS GOOD FOR THEM WHILE BEING ON ADDERALL XR???[/QUOTE]
dj -oy, making my eyes work early in the morning with the all-caps!!
i am on adderall and zoloft and i really like the combination, for what it's worth
haven't noticed any weight gain.
[QUOTE=Thorns4Life]...I am like all adders and I put all things off...[/QUOTE]
I found this interesting, thorns4--if I delay ANYthing for more than like a second, I go into a massive panic, mentally, at least. Am I the only one?
Regarding Being Too Detailed you are singin' to the choir, here. I am the penultimate QueenBee of TMI!
vickie: Thx--I can't believe I was on the right track...
NOPE - I LOVE DELAY!! LOL - I just panic when I have delayed TOO long and the deadline has past, or I can not find what I am looking for.
My 13yr old told me about a shirt he thought was funny & I BURSTED UP LAUGHING and told him I wanted it. "Procrastinaters Unite....TOMORROW!!
Heck - I have christmas presents to mail....FROM LAST YEAR!!! I just recently moved them from my bedroom to the living room to "REMEMBER" to get them in the mail...but I have been too busy... LOL isn't that always the problem! BUT I HAVE BEEN LOTS OF OT at work and FB practices for my son!
-------------
OK - I aM A BIG O'L DORK!!! or MAJOR ADD'er - thank God you all under stand...
Terri - when I read your first response to me and you mentioned "delay" I was thinking you ment "procrastination" GEE!!!!! I need to re-read my questions. So my above response is about procrastination. Now I understand your response better.... DOOIIIIEEE!!!
Any how I work w/ numerical codes all day long and sometimes it is difficult and sometimes more difficult when I take 40 mg of adderall - I have people watching me as I look up a code and should be going to 786.09 but am in the 789.06 section and don't understand why the code dosent make sense. Or I am looking up the word in the index and should be under G's and I am in R's then go past it and looking under D's...then I realize = like my eyes just focused (my brain did) and see where I am at.
Is this normal? I know that is not the job I should be in, but by Gods grace I have made it through for 6 years!! MAJOR GRACE.
Thorns4Life38996.5408101852My personal best example of Inability To Tolerate Delay/Any Type of Pause is during my undergrad: I was the Head Waiter @ this Old
Money establishment & I'm about to uncork wine for first table & my manager goes "I need to talk to you after work" & when my "NO--tell me NOW" command failed to elicit the desired response, I pretty much checked him to the boards/grabbed him by the collar & quickly helped him to the wall for support. NOT my finest hour...thorns4life: I've decided that nothing is "normal" insofar as brain function is concerned! We do share some things in common though...I too, when looking up someone in the phone book usually end up having to search longer than necessary caused by a myriad of things, topping the cause list is I'm a lousy speller and I get distracted with all the other names, ads, so I need to remind myself who the hell I was looking up!
I don't understand your worry that your doc will think that you are abusing your meds if you are taking less than precribed!! It sounds to me like Adderall may not be the best med for you. I take Adderall (40 mg/day). Experimented a bit to get to what amount works best. the only effect I got when I went above 40 mg was increased side-effects....but no appreciable change in my focus, concentration, patience, etc... Everyone's different, so perhaps it is the meds causing your difficulty with code numbers...but it seems worth checking out if a different med would help more with this aspect. good luck
Terrie, when someone "bumps"a post, they are just posting a word so that the topic will get bumped up to the top of the forum list so that other people can see and and hopefully respond. They want to see more responses.
I'd been on 10mg of Adderall for a month and the effects were wonderful but my energy just was borderline functional. Then my doc bumped my dose up to 30mg a day (I have used generic only). The reaction was severe. Extreme aggression, rage and all the chemicals mixed up in my brain, my ADD symptoms were even worse than before, in a matter of days. Now I went back to 10mg a day for a week but just today am trying 5mg in morning with coffee and 10mg in the afternoon. We'll see if I can get the same calm and positive mood but with more energy. Also taking 300mg Buproprian and have Clonazepam which I take on occcasion. I took the Buproprian (Wellbutrin) and anxiety med for 2 months before starting Adderall because after I was diagnosed with ADD I went into a severe depression and started having anxiety attacks.
Right now I'm trying to figure out if I have to eliminate coffee, can it give bad reactions and a jittery energy when combined with the Adderall as it seems to. Or can I reduce my dosage in the morning and still have my coffee? Before being diagnosed, I was drinking coffee day and night and its a very hard habit to break.
Veinpopper38995.7327546296Are you of a slight frame? I'm sorry, but I didn't think it was even possible that someone could be taking less than I. 5mg QID=2O a day I weigh 118 & am like 5'3 & 3/4" & I'm curious--everone else seems to be on one heck of a lot more. Also, while i'm bothering you, WHAT ON EARTH does "ds" & "DD" & Dh" mean in this place?!? All I can think of is like "darling daughter" or"dependent husband" & I suspect that's not what they stand for.
dd=dear daughter
ds=dear son
dh=dear husband
so you got the essence
I have a question for the adderall users - I am like all adders and I put all things off- I struggle w/ getting my refills, and also taking my meds. I have an rx from june that still has pills in it. I don't want to go back to the doc and ask for a new RX, because i am afraid they will think I am abusing it.
When I am on it regularly it is good, and my stress anxiety is reduced, as well as impulsiveness - I am a stress/impulsive eater, and it is so good for that stress to be gone...BUT... I wonder if I need to switch here is why...
I get confused if it works - I am supposed to take 40mg 2x a day (generic) - I think that is too much so I generally take 20mg in am and if I need or remember I take 20 in afternoon - that is why they have been lasting long. I reduced the dosage, because it seems if i take a full 40mg my brain gets jumbled, and I get a little too mello, and sluggish - is that normal??
I don't consider myself a physically hyper person - just mentally all over(much less as i grow older and much less when stress is down) I can sit and focus on the internet for HOURS - but it is the right kind of stimulant to mello my brain - besides w/ two moniters I can be surfing several web sits, while I work in photoshop, at the same time i am doing bills... LOL
In the job that I do I educate and train people in a very technical medical field, and i find my self hard to get words out to express what I want to say - its like I am TOO DETAILED but w/ wrong words.... Is that normal Also my job requires for me to look up codes and diagnosis and I find I have even more of a difficult time searching for a word...often I will find myself looking at the wrong letters, or looking at numbers in the wrong order. It is more noticable when I am on more meds.
GEEEE!!! I just realized how long my post is and well - that is norm for me/us...however us add'er readers might not be able to finish it... LOL I will just stop for now....
But I would like to hear if my expirence is normal.
Yes you're absolutely right Thorns...to want to find a specialist who understands ADD and in which you have complete confidence in. Yeah...I'm still looking for one, and in the meantime I'm struggling along but it's wearing thin. Sounds like it's wearing very thin for you!
So, if I may be so forward....have a direct, serious discussion with your primary physician (who you hopefully have a solid relationship with) and get her (or him) to recommend someone who has ADD understanding, and get to see them asap. It could be the meds, it could be your anxiety, it could be insecurity fed by anxiety, who knows what all is combining to work against your favor in perfroming at work...but you're on the right track!
If your employer is one that is caring of its employees, their human resources staff may also be a resource for you. But as all the "experts" tell us, be careful in divulging to your employer that you have ADD, and don't do it expecting them to bend over backwards to help...just expect or hope for reasonable accommodations. Stick with it friend...and please keep in touch.
Hi John, you asked whether I was having depression or anxiety before the ADD diagnosis. I had a low level depression my whole life and now I realize I had a severe problem with anxiety which would lead to overwhelm, and then "internal chaos" like the world was going to fall down around me. In the last 6 years, I was employed for only 8 mos as a security guard (and there were other extended periods of unemployment). That was a job I could be in a dream state much of the time, which I was my whole life. So yes, I had depression and I had anxiety to the point of being dysfunctional before I stressed out over the diagnosis.
Terrie, about your question of do I have a slight frame (considering my extreme reaction to 30 mg of Amphetamine salts - no I don't have a slight frame. I weigh 265 pounds! So I guess weight has absolutely nothing to do with how much of a dosage any of us need for optimum benefit.
Thanks John D.
I need to follow through and go back to my doctor (my primary physician) I also need to find a specialist who treats ADD - I haven't seen any one in over a year, almost 2 years, and the one I was seeing wasn't "sold" on the ADD "thing" but was open for me taking meds for it.
It is my procrostration that I have been delying.... UGGGH
Well glad to know others have the letter/number problem too. Now that my work has switched to strictly computer, instead of paper, my ADD problems are becomming more noticable, and it is concerning me. Alot of the things we have to use are codes and anograms, boxes that need to be cheched, and clicks that need to be made...ugghhhh I know I will get through some how.