[PrepCouture]

My doctor suggested I try 5 mg of Ritalin for like two weeks to see if it helps. I have been taking it on and off for the past 4 days and haven't noticed much of a difference. It stops wandering thoughts (and impairs creativity and more intuitive skills) but it hasn't had any other significant changes besides little barely recognizable things. The doctor said 5mg might not be a high enough dose, but I should try it anyways and then return for a followup visit.

Has anyone had similar experiences with Ritalin? Did your symptoms change or improve with a higher dose?

I'm also curious as to whether or not I'd benefit more from a prodrug. Remembering to take Ritalin and dealing with the constant roller coaster of it partially wearing off, completely wearing off, and then waiting for the next dose to start working, is distracting in and of itself. I'll be in class worrying about it or I'll postpone taking the next dose because I have two classes back to back and work afterwards, and I feel awkward taking it while I'm out and about. Even when I take it in the most discreet way, I'm slightly paranoid a friend, classmate, or coworker will find out.

[Swabbingred]

Has anyone had similar experiences with Ritalin?

No.

Did your symptoms change or improve with a higher dose?

Yes.

Say you are taking paracetamol or a crucial meds, e.g liver medication.
Why be ashamed of taking Ritalin? Be yourself.

[ElevatorMusic]

I take 25 mg of Ritalin 10mg in the morning, and another in the afternoon. I didn't notice anything on 5mg - not even the same effect as having a coffee.

[PrepCouture]

Thanks, everyone. I'm thinking about talking to the doctor about Vyvanse. He mentioned it, but said I should try Ritalin first. I hear Vyvanse is better for hyperactivity symptoms, and since it is a prodrug, I would only have to take it once a day.

@Swabbingred I agree and it's definitely a fear I have to overcome. It's just difficult given the stigma that society places on ADHD and these medications. I just feel awkward

@ElevatorMusic I agree the the effects are very subtle. I find it doesn't really help my hyperactivity and restlessness (which is my biggest problem), but the 5 mg will refocus me by making wandering thoughts virtually impossible. The downside to this is it makes tasks that require a degree of creativity (e.g. making a prezi presentation or artsy projects) difficult. It's odd since creativity is something I've never lacked. The Ritalin makes me able to stay focused concrete sequential-type tasks such as math and lab work.