[rileyhill]

I was sort of diagnosed with ADHD or ADD by my doctor recently for several Depression and Anxiety symptoms. I have been on Guanfacine for about 2-3 weeks now to help with these symptoms. The medication originally was taken .5 mg in the morning .5 mg at night. Now I take 1mg in the morning and 1mg at night.

So far I haven't noticed much of a difference besides a stronger feeling of not wanting to do anything. I have possibly less energy, and might be more tired. I was considering asking for a stimulant, but I'm not sure how to ask it.

My medications I take daily are
2mg risperidone (risperdal)
2mg guanfacine (intuiv)
20mg escitolopram (lexapro)
1mg lorazepam 1-3 daily (ativan)

Even though I have less energy I still have no desire to want to do things, and my concentration is still very poor.

Any feedback on how to ask my doctor would be greatly appreciated.

[sideblinded]

Hi rileyhill

Welcome to PC.

I am not sure if asking for a stimulant would be the best choice. I would first discuss your issues with your doctor. You could mention that you have low motivation.

The need of a stimulant would be for lack of focus, memory, distractibility, hyperactivity (in some) and lack of motivation and poor concentration (as you say you have). Poor concentration and low energy could stem from other conditions as well. The stimulants mainly increase dopamine so you would have to explain in some depth what problems you are having so your doctor can decide if a stimulant would work for you. The stimulants are not perfect and they are not for everyone. I have ADHD and I have had mixed results and they also have side effects.

Some doctors prescribe stimulants for narcolepsy (people who fall asleep at inappropriate times). Others prescribe it along with other meds to brighten one's mood who has resistant type of depression. Others use it as an appetite suppressant. It would be best to discuss your concerns and be open to what the doctor wants to do.

I hope that you feel better.

[spaceturtle]

guanfacine, hasn't been proven effective for adult ADHD, I don't think.

Worst Risperidone probably blocks the actions of Guanfacine on the alpha-2a adrenergic receptor. In theory Risperidone could block any beneficial effect of Guanfacine.

It seems like your doctor is primarily treating you for depression and anxiety type problems. What he hopes the Guanfacine to achieve is anyones guess.

I doubt he will prescribe you a stimulant.