Did you ever experiment with Adderall, Vyvanse or Ritalin? How did you end up with Strattera?
I’m trying to triangulate a course for myself and still can’t pull the trigger on any of these for fear of side-effects or dependence.
I’m trying to triangulate a course for myself and still can’t pull the trigger on any of these for fear of side-effects or dependence.
His personal preference is Intuniv (Guanfacine). He says the only reason it's not more popular is that the start-up side effects can be unpleasant for a while and proper dose titration takes more work on the provider's side to get it right.
Stimulants don't necessarily lead to dependence, but I have seen enough adults become dependent on stimulant medication or even fall into the trap of doubling up doses or seeking extra sources that it's wise to approach it with caution. Most patients seem to use as directed, but the people who go down the path of addiction and dose escalation aren't necessarily the ones you'd expect.
Non-stimulant medications can be good, but none of them worked for me. ADHD too broad a category to have a good idea of which medications will work for one individual or another.
The only ADHD medication that's worked for me is Adderal (and XR which I'm currently on). Otherwise the only other medication that's helped me was memantine (an Alzheimer's drug) that helped with sensory processing disorder.
Adderall isn't a wonder drug for me but it tips the scale in my favor. I just take the standard release pills 'as needed' in the morning. It does tend to mess with my sleep a bit if I take any after 10am and definitely curbs my appetite (+/-). I'm 47 and recently have been paying closer attention to heart health, it definitely increases heart rate and blood pressure. Not alarmingly so, but if you're in any way marginal for either it's something to consider.