JUST FOUND OUT

Welcome SWW,

Glad you're going to try Ritalin next. It's the shortest acting stimulant of all the short acting stimulants, but sometimes it's the only stimulant that works.

There's also a bit of rebound with it at the end of the day. Rebound means that you'll experience a temporary worsening of ADD symptoms after the last dose wears off. During this period you may find yourself more scattered and reactive.

I took Ritalin for three or so years. I took 17.5 mg every 3.5 hours - (20 mg was too much, 15 wasn't enough; if I waited 4 hours, I could feel it wearing off). If it works, you'll have lots of time to figure this all out. Each person's response to medication is so individual. Work closely with your doctor, and remember to write down questions as they come up for your next doctor appointment.

In the beginning, I would read the newspaper during the hour or so that my brain adjusted to not being on the stimulant, or the rebound effect. I think after a while it didn't bother me as much.

I'm 46 years old. How's it going so far? I imagine you're feeling relieved but at the same time wondering what to do next. Let us know how we can support you. I was diagnosed in 1990 and following that facilitated a support group for ADD adults for eight years.

Again, welcome!

Grandma Lise

Hi SWW,

Welcome to ADHD Central! We're glad you found us.

Grandma L offered some sage advice and I agree with all of it.

Sometimes it can take quite a bit of trial and error to get the right med and the right dosage. What works for one person doesn't mean it'll work for another. So don't give up. I'm wondering why your doc is so against Ritalin.

Keep us posted, ok?

Terry

SWW

Wlecome to Health Central. It is always exciting when someone new joins us. We love to hear your story. I will look forward to learning about your journey and how the diagnosis of ADHD impacts your life.

I agree with Grandma Lise and Terry, sometimes you have to try several different medications and different doses to find what works best for you.

Keep us posted on how things are going and ask questions, I am sure that you have many.

Eileen

I too was diagnosed later than most, though about 10 yrs later than you. It sounds like your psychiatrist doesn't like stimulants. He/she may have their reasons but that shouldn't prevent them from giving you a trial unless there was something  in your past history that caused concern. If not, then continue to experiment w/ the latest meds on the market. If you continue to experience reluctance/refusal from the MD-find another. There are many MDs w/ expertise w/ adult ADD. Trust and confidence in your physicians AND therapists is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. Good luck.

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