[prstn496]

After agreeing that I had ADHD, my psychiatrist prescribed Ritalin. Originally though he prescribed Adderal (?) but changed it when I had problems getting the prescription filled. Anyway, I found that Ritalin does help but with some annoying side affects. The first is that I start clenching my teeth and sticking out my tongue constantly (like always trying to wet my lips). The second is a very distinct hard "crash" a couple of hours after the last dose is taken. The medicine works very well but only for a short period of time.

I would really like to be able to take meds regularly because it really helps but I can't stand the side affects. My doctor seems to think I metabolize medice quickly thus the short time period for working.

Do you think I would have the same problems with other ADHD meds? Anyone have the same experience witht the meds (specifically Ritalin) that I do? If so, what have you done about it, if anything?

[staciewhite]

It is typical for individuals who have ADHD to switch prescriptions more than once. This is true for children and adults. So don't be too alarmed if you need to adjust your meds more than once. Each prescription drug effects everyone differently. I am sharing from experience of having 2 children with ADHD and from my own personal experience with ADHD. I was not diagnosed until the age of 35 after my five year old daughter was and she is now age 11. Your doctor will ask to see you back for a follow up visit within a couple of weeks to see how your medication is working. You will have to review the side effects to determine if your medicine works with your chemistry. I know my girls and for my self that we all can tell when we are in need of our medicine. If you truly need it, you will feel better and have better focus. Meds are not a cure, however, they can help during the times of day you need it. They all have side effects that you have to decide if you can live with or not. Read all the information you can on the labels and research on line anything you take for precaution. Best of luck. Take care of yourself.

[BlueInanna]

Sounds like the dosage might be a bit high to me. Sorry you're going through it. I notice if I haven't taken my adderall in awhile, those mouth symptoms happen to me. And then I build up a tolerance. Adderall is supposed to be safer than ritalin, at least that's what the doctors have told me. Hope you find something that helps.

[joanna2007]

Are you taking just the regular immediate release? If so, maybe you need to try an extended release such as Concerta or Vyvanse. I have found with Vyvanse that the crash is less than any other med I have taken. As far as the teeth clenching, this has been a big problem for me. If it continues, as it has for me, you will start experiencing a lot of pain in your jaw, neck muscles, and teeth. From what I have read, this side effect may or may not go away. I believe mine is being caused by my Prozac and it has not gone away 3 weeks into the Prozac. I am also on Vyvanse but it stated after I started the Prozac and before I started the Vyvanse. Anyway, I would recommend you switch to extended release meds to lessen the crash and you start at a very low dose and work your way up. It takes a while to get ADHD meds sorted but is worth it when you get there. Good luck.

I've had Really good luck with Adderal (Taken 3X daily). My daughter takes Vyvanse with great results. Sometimes it takes a while to find what works best for you.

Good Luck

[eamo73]

hello. 1st day. re diagnosed yesterday ADD bipolar depressive slight dyspraxia. I've been on 25mg lexapro daily for 18ish months. mentally totally crashed and burned omygod did i. four nights ago had an overnighter in hospital. yesterday re diagnosed. completed the task of maikng appointment for my gp tomorrow morn to discuss meds