What medication most typical for Adult ADD?

[brando]

Hi Everyone,

I am scheduled to see a doctor to initiate medication treatment for adult ADD. This is a new doctor so I am very curious (and a little anxious) as to what approach he may use.

What is the typical initial medical treatment for adult SDD? is it usually stimulants or other things such as Strattera? Is there a preference for most doctors? And do they ask the patient of the patient's preference?

Thanks,
Brando

[HooDunnit]

Good question.

Ritalin in its many forms / releases / names has a long track record of being helpful. Adderall is amphetamines. Strattera is fairly new. My guess is that you would probably be started with a stimulant. Strattera is actually in the family of antidepressants, but some people find it helpful. Some parents are now giving their child Stattera to help stabilize them for the day, plus a pinch of stimulant in the morning to help with focus.

Barry

PS Having now read your past posts, I don't know why a physician was recommending Wellbutrin or Effexor for ADD. Those medications are mostly for depression. I read this about Wellbutrin for example:

"Wellbutrin is an anti depressant that is used to treat more than just chemical or mental problems. Wellbutrin is used to treat depression, chemical imbalances, helps you kick certain drug habits, Wellburtin is also used to help some to stop smoking. Wellbutrin has been known to help those who have back pain and to treat those who have chronic fatigue problems and disorders."

I also note that you have a GRE exam coming up soon, perhaps in a week or so. Strattera takes time to build up in your system and show a positive effect, if indeed it does show one. Some of these antidepressants can negatively affect your sex life, I am told.

With a stimulant, you know fairly quickly whether it helps you or not. About 75% of the time, I have read, stimulants are effective short term. The side-effects tend to arise, when they do, with long-term use at higher dosages.

If your objective is to focus on your exam, details, etc., I would think that a stimulant may be helpful. You might also consider exercise and natural supplements. Intense aerobic exercise (of 30 to 45 minutes) can increase your focus for 3 to 4 hours. Excercise also leads to release of endorphins, the so-called "feel good hormones".

[brando]

Thanks for the information Barry. I am seeing the MD on monday so we'll see what happens.

I went to the testing center today to take my GRE and they told me I was booked for next week!!! I couldn't believe it. Either they messed up the reservation or I really was not paying attention to the right date!

Brando

[Sorka]

In terms of your test.. is there anything that helps you focus while you work? Chewing gum or anything like that? So long as it is allowable in the testing area go for it! Make sure you have a sweatshirt handy if you tend to be cold, or wear layers if you tend to run hot. Those sensory problems can cause you to lose focus fast as well.

Some food for thought!
Denise