Observations on Adderall

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I don’t often write about ADD medications because 1. I don’t take them myself, and 2. I’m not a doctor or health professional. However, I recently had the chance to spend a few days with someone who is currently taking Adderall and I wanted to share my observations.

I am choosing not to reveal the identity of this person. I can tell you that it is someone I know very well who has ADHD and that she is a female in her mid twenties. Let’s call her Madison.

Madison has taken a number of different medications for her ADHD over the years, including Vyvanse. She actually had a very good experience with Vyvanse, but had to switch to Adderall because of her insurance.

Madison began taking Adderall four months ago. She lost 15 pounds the first month – weight she didn’t need to lose. Although it has slowed, her weight loss has continued since then.

Madison eats mostly because she thinks she should, not because she is hungry.

She gets very little sleep, even though she takes her medication early in the day.

Although she is often tired, she still finds that she gets a great deal done. Soon after she takes her Adderall, she gets a huge burst of energy to the point where she feels the need to move and remain active. She also finds that she talks a great deal during this time and feels jittery.

Sometime in the afternoon, there is an abrupt change in how she feels, as though someone has thrown a switch. She becomes tired and sleepy, although she cannot sleep if she tries.

Although she is pleased with the things that she accomplishes, Madison is not happy with the way that she feels. Many of these side effects were not present when she was taking Vyvanse, and when Vyvanse wore off, it was a gentle transition.

I wanted to share my observations with you in regards to Adderall, just for informational purposes. You may take Adderall and do very well with it. If so, you may want to share your experiences with us. Personally I was suprised at how long the side effects of Adderall had lasted with Madison.

Because I am known for my natural approach to treating my ADHD, people assume that I am against medication. That is not true; if it works for you, I’m all for it. My stance on medication is education. I share what I know with you and let you make your own decision.

I hope this article has helped.

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Lacy Estelle

Lacy Estelle is the writer of Lacyestelle.com and the Podcast host for An ADD Woman.

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2 Responses

  1. If this is how she’s reacting to meds she’s on the wrong one.

    I took Adderall for a short time and didn’t like it. It felt rough. Too punchy at the start of the day and then unpleasant as it wore off. After trying different meds I’ve settled on 20mg of plain ol’ Ritilan. It lasts long enough to help with my work day. If I need something in the late afternoon I have the option to take 10mg more. Some days I don’t take any. This works for me, I feel like I have control and options depending on what my day holds. I did have a Physicians assistant tell me I was “abusing” Ritilan, but that’s ridiculous. There are days when I can control my ADHD on my own, and some I’d rather not. I feel taking the meds has actually given me skills that help me deal with symptoms when I’m not on them.

    It’s so important to look for a doctor that will work with you to find the right meds. There are lots of options out there if you chose to use medication.

  2. I decided to accept the medications because I was diagnosed late and I was very tired of my situation. Also because I had chronic depression. The first medication I was prescribed was Atomoxetine and very soon I found myself hitting my head against the wall, something that had never ever happened to me before, no matter how depressed I was. Then they prescribed Methylphenidate and I got so anxious that I was spinning around the whole day, not being able to do anything and not even eating and finally my blood pressure rose. Then I changed neurologist and I was prescribed Imipramine and I started feeling better the second day. At least about the depression. I am not sure yet if my attention has improved.