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Post by sarv on Apr 12, 2010 22:28:52 GMT
Hi I have (might have) a choice between Dexedrine (5mg) one a day and Ritalin (10mg) once a day, both will increase to twice a day. what are people experiences of these medications? Side effects? Good effects... any effects I've read the emc ans Rx website with regards to above med, really like to hear about personal experiences, All the best Sarv xx
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Post by Deleted on Apr 12, 2010 22:43:18 GMT
Will reply in full tomorrow as I spent time on both and had issues and dislikes with one but great success and hope in the other. But as others will tell you, everyones biology is different and one persons exp is not as great an indicator of how it may be for you as you would want, hope or expect. But some things are useful to know and I will respond tomorrow on how it went for me with some tips.
D
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Post by Deleted on Apr 12, 2010 23:35:01 GMT
Hi Sarv
First I tried Ritalin and then Dexerdrine. Whilst they both improved my ADHD symptoms in helping me to better focus and generally get more done, I much prefer dexerdrine and still take it. It's hard to describe how Ritalin made me feel - my head felt strange (like a subtle headache) and I experienced a slight buzzing-sound in my ears. These side-effects were very immediate and didn't seem to lessen over time. For me, dexerdrine is a much 'smoother' drug. I recently read somewhere (think it may have been on this site) that dexerdrine tends to suit the 'inattentive' types like me. It's interesting that it's prescribed to narcoleptics as I'm very day-dreamy, become easily-tired and love to sleep! Dexerdrine helps me to stay awake and more alert. As DiCaprio says, the better one for you ultimately depends on you.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 13, 2010 7:55:27 GMT
Well i tried Ritalin as first drug and i did not get on with it very well.
I felt its onset was sudden and unnerving then the come down was equally as fast and erratic. It was like a drug rollercoaster and made me edgy and anxious + a bit more emotional. I got hot and sweaty sometimes and did not seem to get much benefit. I was given both "Ritalin - (BRANDED)" and "Equsym" which is same drug different brand.
I then tried Concerta and Straterra which for various reasons, i did not get on with or derive much benefit.
I finally got Dexedrine (still use now) and its poles apart when it comes to my experiences with the above. Its "smoother" as others said - its effects creep in after taking within 30-45 mins, then they wear off slower. IT lasts longer for me and i get no anxiety, edginess, hot flushes etc.
It has helped me go from sitting at my work desk in a typical large open plan office simply scrolling up and down an excel sheet doing nothing + surfing the web all day (0 productivity) to sometimes going 5-7 hours non stop work at high quality. I feel happier (mood elevator) and more relaxed. My thoughts are clearer and i am way more focussed. ITs actually remarkable how its helped me....BUT
This was me, and my personal experience that may not be repelicated in others. Also, its not side effect free. I get v grouchy around 330-6pm when it wears off. I have a reduced appetite (not good as i am lean already), i can become so engrossed in work that i isolate myself and dont engage with others around me unless i make myself pull away from work.
Also, I feel "drugged" BUT not overly nor in a way others would notice - just you can tell your taking medication as at the end of the day its amphetamine. Its also addictive as its so useful in work and the mood elevation makes it pleasent to take, and tolerance can grow quick meaning you need drug holidays or accept its reduced effects as they wane over time.
I love researching my meds and adhd + using the web and my reading of dexedrine has told me time and time again that its most effective in inattentive adhd where as Ritalin works better for Hyperactive subtype. Dexedrine does seem to consistently come up as stronger than Ritalin and most preffered by ADHD adults. It is the most addictive and easiliy abused. IT also comes up as the option of last resort as they will try Ritalin, Concerta and Straterra first (normally).
Oh, and i have terrible Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) when drug wears off - i chew gum and keep an eye on it as can give minor headaches + damage teeth. No one else can see it whe ni do it but i catch myself doing it then have to remeber to stop! Minor issue but annoying one!
Message me for more info and exp and tips of how i work around my adhd + work around side effects of drugs...
D
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Post by Deleted on Apr 15, 2010 0:38:35 GMT
Regarding the side-effects of dexerdrine, I just wanted to share that I've been taking it for around 5 years and, for me, the worst of these have completely subsided. During the first year, I had very little appetite and lost a lot of weight. These days I eat normally and my weight is back to what it was. It stopped affecting my sleep a very long time ago and I recently noticed I no longer grind my teeth or suffer with a dry mouth. I still feel irritable when its wearing off but even that has improved over time.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 15, 2010 7:52:21 GMT
well thats cool as teeth grinding and low appetite really get me each day - Can you tell me how it has been with dosage as i am on 15mg a day but its been 6 mths now and i feel that i am tolerating it too much as not getting same effect so wonder how your dose climbed or dopped over time?
thanks
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Post by sarv on Apr 15, 2010 11:16:07 GMT
Hi everyone, Many many thanks for all of your replies. It is helping me a lot. I feel very lucky that I found this website. To be honest for some unknown reasons I always had a gut feeling that Dexedrine should be better for me. I was dx with 'inattentive' types of ADHD.
I read itching and losing hair is a common side effect, this worries me much.
Appetite and weight is not too much worry me because it has been many years that I don't have any appetite for real food anyway and all I eat is coffee with choc, cake sweets and some time crisps or rice cakes. I am not super skinny; I am normal weight for my height. Losing a bit of a weight for female is not as a big issue (as long as it's only few pounds) If I lose my appetite/crave for sweets and chocolates that might cause me weight loss, (hope that doesn't happen). I grind my teeth without Dex any way. It's very bad that I am due to have lots of crowns on my teeth.
I will inform you about my progress. Again I feel very lucky that I fine this website and I found my doctor.
Love Sarv xx
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Post by Deleted on Apr 15, 2010 23:29:12 GMT
Can you tell me how it has been with dosage as i am on 15mg a day but its been 6 mths now and i feel that i am tolerating it too much as not getting same effect so wonder how your dose climbed or dopped over time? thanks Hi I currently take between 15 and 20mg a day (depending on things like the time I get up/go to bed, go to work, my memory, etc). However, for the majority of the time I've been taking dexedrine, I only took 10mg a day because the side-effects became too much for me on higher doses. I think the reason I now take more is because the side-effects have decreased and not because I'm tolerating it too much and not getting the same effect. Whilst dexedrine has helped my ADHD, it hasn't dramatically helped and I suspect I'd see a bigger improvement at even higher doses. I remember reading on one of those American anti-medication websites that people build up tolerances to dexerdrine and need to take more and more to get the same effect (like Cocaine) but when I asked my doctor about this, he said it wasn't true. He said once you've taken it and its effects have worn off, you return to being as you were before you took it. For a long time, I think the main reason I didn't want to take more than 10mg a day was because not eating much led to other problems and feelings that, at the time, I probably attributed to dexedrine itself. Now that's no longer an issue, I'm feeling much more positive about its true potential.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 15, 2010 23:48:20 GMT
I read itching and losing hair is a common side effect, this worries me much. Appetite and weight is not too much worry me because it has been many years that I don't have any appetite for real food anyway and all I eat is coffee with choc, cake sweets and some time crisps or rice cakes. I am not super skinny; I am normal weight for my height. Losing a bit of a weight for female is not as a big issue (as long as it's only few pounds) I remember feeling a bit itchy at first but that quickly went away for good. No hair loss at all. I lost a lot more than a few pounds in weight but have since gained it back. Someone told me that Dexedrine used to be prescribed as a weight loss drug in America but they stopped using it as such when they realised it doesn't provide a long-term solution to weight issues. It's interesting you say you have a lot of coffee with chocolate - I have these together every day too! Hope it all goes well for you x
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Post by sarv on Apr 16, 2010 9:48:22 GMT
Thanks namaskara, Sorry for keep asking, I like to know during the time that you lost your appetite did you stop drinking coffee and eating chocolate and sweet??? sarv xx
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Post by Deleted on Apr 18, 2010 20:21:19 GMT
That's OK, ask away!
No, I still liked the same foods including sweet things; I just ate a lot less of everything because I didn't feel hungry. With coffee, when I started taking medication, I drank less than before because I had probably been self-medicating with another stimulant. That hasn't changed to this day- I went from drinking 4 or 5 cups of coffee to 1 or 2 a day.
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Post by sherry on Apr 18, 2010 21:10:18 GMT
Ah that explains why I went off coffee a bit when I was on the meds. I normally can't live without it and suddenly I just didn't like it as much anymore, interesting.
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Post by lola050510 on Jun 15, 2010 17:23:22 GMT
Hello,
I have recently moved to London from the USA. I was diagnosed with adult adhd and was prescribed Adderall which is similar to Dexedrine. I have been to a GP who said I must see a pychiatrist in order to get a prescription. Can anyone recommend a doctor in South London (Clapham area) who can help me?
Thanks
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Post by Deleted on Jun 15, 2010 19:37:28 GMT
Dont think you can get adderell here or if you can its v v hard + expensive - more likely to get concerta, dexedrine or new vyvanse....
D
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Post by Deleted on Jun 16, 2010 13:21:03 GMT
I found Ritalin just feels like cocaine.....
Good if you like cocaine perhaps.
I might suggest Dexedrine to my physch next time i see her.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 18, 2010 21:47:58 GMT
Hi all, I was diagnosed 6 years ago-more inattentive type-was put on Concerta XL, didn't think it was working, then put on Ritalin max dose and doesn't seem to have made a diff.... Went to GP as I wanted to try diff type of med than Methyphenidate and I've been referred to a psychiatrist (who should more knowledge of these things) but he's only ever prescribed Ritalin. As it happens, (sorry for the waffle!) went back on Rit, not much diff, so he's trying me on, guess, Concerta xl! He doesn't think that Adderall or Dexerdrine will be any diff as they're both stimulants similar to Methylphenidate, and most people with ADHD respond to that. I'm trying to argue that diff drugs work for diff people but he's just not hearing me!!! ARRRGGHHH! I would like to try all drugs, not cos I'm a user, just because I want my 'eureka' moment. Am I looking for a magic bullet that I won't find? I just want to be more on the ball, organised, attentive, better with money etc... (can't remember the rest!) Anyone know of any research that I can take to doc to show relevance of diff meds working for diff people? Many thanks! V.x
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Post by Deleted on Jun 25, 2010 9:19:06 GMT
Im the same as you Veriti.
Im waiting for that moment of clarity. What i HAVE noticed with Ritalin, although i can tell when im on them but not notice a huge difference, i notice more when im NOT....mostly with memory.
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Post by sarv on Jun 26, 2010 12:09:34 GMT
I think most of doctors and pharmacists know that different people have different reaction to a same drugs, but from my experience when it comes to price and budget, most NHS doctors decisions are based on what is the most cost effective treatment (not what they learned in medical school). sad but reality :-(
I received my first Rx for Dexedrine, I will start it tomorrow, I hope it will suites me. not sure my NHS GP will approve it as it is not in their Formulary.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 29, 2010 23:13:15 GMT
I like the moment of clarity analogy. It really sums up a lot of what I feel, and am hoping for with medications.
I have been on Ritalin for about a year, and couldn't really feel a difference on it, but could definitely notice one in my behaviors / ability to concentrate. I'm hoping to try Dex next, but not sure when my next referral to the specialist will be. Ill post back when (if?) I get to try it.
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Post by Deleted on May 2, 2011 16:08:11 GMT
Anyone know how willing Dr Cubbin would be to recommend Dexedrine?
I was on generic MPH IR, which was good but the crashes were terrible.
I'm on Concerta now, but it seems to be making me a bit depressed.
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Post by Deleted on May 2, 2011 19:48:42 GMT
I think she'd be supportive as it came up in my assessment when she expressed surprise that my bf had been prescribed it years ago. As I understand it, its not that available over here but I could be wrong.
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Post by Deleted on May 2, 2011 20:10:55 GMT
DrC will prescribe dex (it's not the first choice though) and there are some questions over the supply since the licence recently changed hands.
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Post by optomistic65 on May 3, 2011 10:42:31 GMT
I was diagnosed as an inattentive type three months ago and my psych started me on methylphenidate which made me feel tired and incredibly depressed. When I told my psych she said that it was an unusual reaction from a stimulant, but accepted that the drug was not helping me, and if it were ever likely to help it would have been immediately obvious.
I was taken off the methylphenidate after only 10 days and put on dexamphetamine, the difference was like night and day. I immediately began to feel more positive, more motivated, I started going back to the gym, I could concentrate on my studies and I stopped analysing everything to death. Before it was like I was wearing blinkers and I didn't feel normal, now I feel part of the human race.
Don't let anyone tell you that because methylphenidate and dex are both stimulants they will have the same effect as I can tell you that's rubbish!
It might be wise to remind these medical practitioners that according to the NICE guidelines the next drug to be tried after methylphenidate is Dexamphetamine.
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Post by Aby on Feb 5, 2017 16:29:42 GMT
Well i tried Ritalin as first drug and i did not get on with it very well. I felt its onset was sudden and unnerving then the come down was equally as fast and erratic. It was like a drug rollercoaster and made me edgy and anxious + a bit more emotional. I got hot and sweaty sometimes and did not seem to get much benefit. I was given both "Ritalin - (BRANDED)" and "Equsym" which is same drug different brand. I then tried Concerta and Straterra which for various reasons, i did not get on with or derive much benefit. I finally got Dexedrine (still use now) and its poles apart when it comes to my experiences with the above. Its "smoother" as others said - its effects creep in after taking within 30-45 mins, then they wear off slower. IT lasts longer for me and i get no anxiety, edginess, hot flushes etc. It has helped me go from sitting at my work desk in a typical large open plan office simply scrolling up and down an excel sheet doing nothing + surfing the web all day (0 productivity) to sometimes going 5-7 hours non stop work at high quality. I feel happier (mood elevator) and more relaxed. My thoughts are clearer and i am way more focussed. ITs actually remarkable how its helped me....BUT This was me, and my personal experience that may not be repelicated in others. Also, its not side effect free. I get v grouchy around 330-6pm when it wears off. I have a reduced appetite (not good as i am lean already), i can become so engrossed in work that i isolate myself and dont engage with others around me unless i make myself pull away from work. Also, I feel "drugged" BUT not overly nor in a way others would notice - just you can tell your taking medication as at the end of the day its amphetamine. Its also addictive as its so useful in work and the mood elevation makes it pleasent to take, and tolerance can grow quick meaning you need drug holidays or accept its reduced effects as they wane over time. I love researching my meds and adhd + using the web and my reading of dexedrine has told me time and time again that its most effective in inattentive adhd where as Ritalin works better for Hyperactive subtype. Dexedrine does seem to consistently come up as stronger than Ritalin and most preffered by ADHD adults. It is the most addictive and easiliy abused. IT also comes up as the option of last resort as they will try Ritalin, Concerta and Straterra first (normally). Oh, and i have terrible Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) when drug wears off - i chew gum and keep an eye on it as can give minor headaches + damage teeth. No one else can see it whe ni do it but i catch myself doing it then have to remeber to stop! Minor issue but annoying one! Message me for more info and exp and tips of how i work around my adhd + work around side effects of drugs... D Hi, i started on dexamphetamin like 2nd week now, started 5mg, now 10mg, nothing. And this was one of my last resort after trying all kinds of long release meds. Im a young adult and the hyperactive + inattentive type. My personality adds to the hyperactivity and thought it was a bad thng, but i wouldn't want to loose my bubbly personality for the worked. however I do find i need to slow down, its very hard.. and clearly come across so rushed and fast with everyting it looks abnormal. I didn't wnt to trye Retlin, as have heard a lot of negative things about it. I might have a try if dex doesn't seem to work . I was wondering what dosage are o using dex at? thank you A
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Post by marionk on Feb 8, 2017 5:19:23 GMT
AtticusAs this is an old thread, risen to the top, I presume there is an invisible post, making it rise. New members' first posts can only be seen on the 'mobile' version of the site, until they are approved by Atticus. This can take a while . . . In the meantime, welcome to the forums! Perhaps post some more, (I think they will be visible to all ).
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Post by pharmacyrxs on May 29, 2020 7:02:58 GMT
Believe it or not, the title to this post was something someone actually said to me at work one day shortly after I was diagnosed with ADHD and reluctantly went on medication for it. Let me start at the beginning, I was not diagnosed with ADHD until I was 35 years old. At first, I was in denial and actually mad at my husband for saying that he thought I might have it. The funny thing is, I am the one who studied all about it and was surprised at how many of the symptoms I had so I asked him what he thought. (Poor guy!) I then went to a Psychologist and he had me, my mom and my husband fill out questionaires, and he had me take a series of tests. I remember one test was on a computer and all I had to do was watch for a dot to come on the screen and hit the number one each time I saw it. I thought it was really stupid and EASY! Then the doctor came back in the room. My score was so bad that he said there was no question in his mind that I had it. We talked about treatments and different things I could do to help cope in life better. My teachers did not tell my mother that I was very creative and very active, nor did I suffer the more common social problems that usually exist with ADHD. I was in special education classes and had a hard time in school with self-esteem because I wanted to learn quicker and didn’t understand why I wasn’t as, (so called,’smart’ as most of my peers. I never realized that it only took me longer because I couldn’t focus, or slow my mind down enough to concentrate. I somehow made it through high school and AMAZINGLY graduated from College with a degree in Elementary Education. I did not pass every class the first time I took them and I had private tutors that helped me. I also must have learned some tricks along the way, but those will be shared in another post. The main reason I was diagnosed at 35 was only because I researched all I could about ADHD to help understand my daughter better.
Even before she went to Kindergarten, I knew that something was not quite right with the way she behaved. At first, I blamed myself and my husband’s parenting skills, or lack thereof, and we took Parenting classes to get some help.
I started to wonder if she could have ADHD when my mother-in-law talked about some of the struggles she had with my brother-in-law who has ADHD, but it is not easy to diagnose and it could have been so many things where she was so young. When she started preschool the teacher asked me if she had ADHD and I told her that I didn’t know. I talked to her pediatrician and he stated the same things I was thinking, she was too young to really diagnose and so we would have to wait until she started school and let her teachers help us decide. In the mean time, I read several more books and filled out the questionaires that some of those books offered to help determine if that was what she had.
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