Filed under: ADD Symptoms
Question:
I have been on: Cylert, Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, Concerta…I definitely notice when I’m off meds (if I run out of my Rx) that my severe ADD is alive and well, but it seems like a catch-22: if you’ve never in your life been able to function properly without ADD getting in the way (misreading people’s body language–socially; losing jobs due to inconsistent performance–mentally; low self-esteem b/c of people not understanding your ADD–emotionally)….HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN MEDS ARE WORKING? HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR ADD SYMPTOMS ARE IN CHECK???
Slow down. Relax. Have some faith in yourself and some of your fellow kin, eh? Welcome back. Stay a while …. We missed you. 
RL ( I got to run outside and barbqueue dinner … back later! )
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been on: Cylert, Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, Concerta…I definitely notice when I’m off meds (if I run out of my Rx) that my severe ADD is alive and well, but it seems like a catch-22: if you’ve never in your life been able to function properly without ADD getting in the way (misreading people’s body language–socially; losing jobs due to inconsistent performance–mentally; low self-esteem b/c of people not understanding your ADD–emotionally)….HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN MEDS ARE WORKING? HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR ADD SYMPTOMS ARE IN CHECK??? Slow down. Relax. Have some faith in yourself and some of your fellow kin, eh? Welcome back. Stay a while …. We missed you. RL ( I got to run outside and barbqueue dinner … back later! )
You know what I can’t stand about ADD babybluesky? The writhing twisting agony of suspended thought. It is utterly unbearable, IMO. Cordially RL
Response:
I have been on: Cylert, Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, Concerta…I definitely notice when I’m off meds (if I run out of my Rx) that my severe ADD is alive and well, but it seems like a catch-22: if you’ve never in your life been able to function properly without ADD getting in the way (misreading people’s body language–socially; losing jobs due to inconsistent performance–mentally; low self-esteem b/c of people not understanding your ADD–emotionally)….HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN MEDS ARE WORKING? HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR ADD SYMPTOMS ARE IN CHECK??? Slow down. Relax. Have some faith in yourself and some of your fellow kin, eh? Welcome back. Stay a while …. We missed you.
Some statistics …. ‘ English is spoken as a first language by more than 300 million people throughout the world, and used as a second language by many millions more. One in five of the world’s population speaks English with a good level of competence, and within the next few years the number of people speaking English as a second language will exceed the number of native speakers. … ‘ http://www.askoxford.com/globalenglish/?view=uk Let’s suppose the are 10 million English speaking, hardcore ADD types with access to the internet. Let’s suppose that the are 1 million hardcore ADD types who know about Usenet ( ‘Google’ is ASAD’s friend ) And the Raving Loonie is wasting his Friday night to sincerly answer you. … Get back here "babybluesky" and let’s have some fun. Of course; I almost forgot … " Am I for real ? " I guess not. Get it? EVERYONE WITH ADD RE-ACTS LIKE SHIT.
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – And the Raving Loonie is wasting his Friday night to sincerly answer you. … Get back here "babybluesky" and let’s have some fun. Of course; I almost forgot … " Am I for real ? " I guess not. Get it? EVERYONE WITH ADD RE-ACTS LIKE SHIT. You’re real, but that doesn’t mean everyone is. Who knows if she EVEN HAS ADD?
And pigs might fly. Impatient like a scram jet hyper hyper sensitive Tensile as tempered and rolled steel. She posted a bunch of questions about a bunch of other meds for a bunch of other conditions on a bunch of other mental health sites and never mentioned ADD anywhere but here. Today all her posts are gone. All of them. Maybe she’s a troll. Think about that before you spend too much emotional energy on her.
She is no troll. IMO, that is almost certain. As for the emotional thing and "me" re-acting? Sigh. … ADD. She’ll be back. Don’t worry.
Wouldn’t it be nice to see people loose their ADD hangups, eh? Cordially, the Raving Loonie
Response:
<snip You’re real, but that doesn’t mean everyone is. Who knows if she EVEN HAS ADD? She posted a bunch of questions about a bunch of other meds for a bunch of other conditions on a bunch of other mental health sites and never mentioned ADD anywhere but here. Today all her posts are gone. All of them. Maybe she’s a troll. Think about that before you spend too much emotional energy on her. She’ll be back. Don’t worry.
Perhaps she didn’t feel that ADD was relevant in any group except ASAD. Who knows? She certainly mentioned her "comorbidities" here the last times she posted.
Response:
I have been on: Cylert, Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, Concerta…I definitely notice when I’m off meds (if I run out of my Rx) that my severe ADD is alive and well, but it seems like a catch-22: if you’ve never in your life been able to function properly without ADD getting in the way (misreading people’s body language–socially; losing jobs due to inconsistent performance–mentally; low self-esteem b/c of people not understanding your ADD–emotionally)….HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN MEDS ARE WORKING? HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR ADD SYMPTOMS ARE IN CHECK???
Since ADHDers may be poor judges of their own behavior, they probably need to get a reality check from others: co-workers, friends, family, etc. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am currently on Concerta and Strattera. I thought both were working well for me. But I lost another job–granted, I only took it for one full month while I was at the job, though, after switching from Adderall. I was let go b/c of inconsistent work performance. It was a high-pressure, fast-paced environment. My boss and another guy were total jackasses, but that’s beside the point. They knew about my ADD and didn’t care, just berated me for any small mistakes I made. I was devastated to lose the job, b/c I had been breaking my neck to be careful and push myself and get all my work done. Obviously, high intelligence and ADD often go hand in hand, so I don’t need to tell anyone here how smart/bright/brilliant I am. I just am so discouraged. I just left my therapist of 11 years, b/c I felt like, at this point, I should be getting something more out of my sessions, and she hasn’t helped one bit. Will cognitive behavior therapy help with the missed social cues? Is there a magic pill that helps people who’ve been unresponsive to a ton of other ADD meds?
Alas, there is no "magic" in pill form or otherwise. The meds don’t just fix everything that ADHDers find problematic. What they may be able to do, however, is make it easier for you to work on fixing the problem yourself. Problems with social skills, for example. Meds won’t magically make them disappear. You need to actively work on developing social skills. I don’t know if cognitive therapy would help with that issue, but there may be support groups in your area that help people develop appropriate social skills such as reading non-verbal cues, not interrupting, not monopolizing the conversation, not walking away in the middle of a conversation, etc. You mentioned your problems with remembering to have your meds filled in another post. Taking your ADHD meds obviously didn’t help you remember to get a new prescription. You’ve got to work at developing a reminder system. I would really appreciate some advice…or something….b/c it’s discouraging and I’m starting to despair that I will ever make the most of my talents and brains…I am already looking for a different type of work environment, which will be a big help. But in general, I want to feel like I don’t have ADD anymore!!! Or at least, not feel the negative aspects of it, in such a way that they control my life!!!
Do you do any kind of volunteer work? The reason I’m asking is that I can see several possible benefits for you in getting actively involved in some kind of voluteering: Volunteering doing something you enjoy will help you feel good about yourself. There’s nothing like helping others in need to give you a sense of purpose and self-worth. Plus, helping others who are worse off than you are will help you put your own problems into perspective and get your mind off them for a while. Volunteering may help you develop some of the skills you now may lack. You may also discover new talents or interests which may lead to a new job. It may also help you find some like-minded friends and develop a larger social circle. As a result, your social life may improve, and your job networking circle too. Nancy Unique, like everyone else
Response:
Not a troll. Just saw something on TV about our "electronic fingerprints"–I didn’t think anyone would be around on the holiday weekend to answer my posts and didn’t want to leave personal info up on the boards.
You need to realize something. You may remove your messages from Googlegroups, but it doesn’t remove them from the people who use real newsreaders (I use Agent). I’ve got my retention set for 30 days, so everything posted here stays here for a month. Many, many other people do the same thing. If you’re worried about anonymity I’m afraid you’re SOL in today’s information age. Don’t post to usenet at all (although that cat is kinda out of the bag already). — Ann e-mail address is not checked
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Not a troll. Just saw something on TV about our "electronic fingerprints"–I didn’t think anyone would be around on the holiday weekend to answer my posts and didn’t want to leave personal info up on the boards. You need to realize something. You may remove your messages from Googlegroups, but it doesn’t remove them from the people who use real newsreaders (I use Agent). I’ve got my retention set for 30 days, so everything posted here stays here for a month. Many, many other people do the same thing. If you’re worried about anonymity I’m afraid you’re SOL in today’s information age. Don’t post to usenet at all (although that cat is kinda out of the bag already).
Including where you, "babybluesky", are posting from, btw ;-) ( Your "posting" IP is is listed when you use Google Groups online ) Cordially, RL
Response:
Question:
Hi all: Well in my frustration with my current situation, and the way the Ritalin was NOT working as well as it had, I did a two day drug free holiday. I even skipped my BP medication [not likely a good idea]. Results: – BP was good but I wasn’t out working in a stressful situation. – Perhaps I don’t needed it except in those situations. – I will continue taking it. Organization/Effectiveness – About the same. – I applied for one job that I won’t get in a million years but that was all I saw available. Other Tasks Accomplished: – made my bed, showered and cleaned up my room both days; – organized recycling and put it on the curb with the garbage for the week – made meals for the family each day – washed the dishes – cleaned the furnace filters – searched for work online and filed one application. – check the newspapers for work. – bought a few groceries Distractions: – I watched the movie "Fahrenheit 451" on DVD – visited 3 ADD message boards and alt.support.atten-deficit – made a few posts to several groups. – sent a few email messages – I edited a video For the most part, the days slipped away as usual I accomplished little as I became distracted and flitted from one thing to the other. Good Factors: I seem to still be able to quickly make my bed, tidy up and do the dishes which before the meds I would have left or let drag on. Bad Factors: – I spent far too much time on the Internet the first day – I stayed up half the first night as I couldn’t shut my brain off and sleep. – slept much of the second day. – ate far too much without realizing it. Major Difference: – Food cravings were back. – I didn’t even notice it until my wife came home and pointed out that in addition to regular meals, I had eaten a whole loaf of bread in sandwiches as ’snacks’ during the first day. I hadn’t even noticed it and when it was mentioned was amazed. – Had trouble sleeping during the night. Conclusions: – The Ritalin does help me some. I am back on Ritalin but have reduced the dosage to 30mg a day as 60mg didn’t work better than the 30mg. – I am far less impulsiveness on the Ritalin – Distractibility might be improved on Ritalin. – I have learned many good coping skills on Ritalin that carry over to when I am not taking it. – I seem to be able to stick to many tasks that I would wander off from previously. I am looking for information on many groups for medication or treatment that I can both afford and that works better than what I have. I am still very sick with a constant cough and my Asthma is bad. Suggestions and comments will be appreciated. Best wishes and thanks to all. – Vic Come visit my ADD/ADHD friends at: http://www.scatterbrained.co.uk/ For great math tricks for you kids try: http://www.angelfire.com/me/marmalade/mathtips.html
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Conclusions: – The Ritalin does help me some. I am back on Ritalin but have reduced the dosage to 30mg a day as 60mg didn’t work better than the 30mg. – I am far less impulsiveness on the Ritalin – Distractibility might be improved on Ritalin. – I have learned many good coping skills on Ritalin that carry over to when I am not taking it. – I seem to be able to stick to many tasks that I would wander off from previously.
This all sound quite reasonable and expected. I wish it did a little more for you. Have you tried a low carb diet? Several people in this group have found that helps with ADD symptoms. I eat this way, and it definitely feels better (no blood sugar lows for one thing) though I can’t really say what it does for my ADD.
Response:
This all sound quite reasonable and expected. I wish it did a little more for you. Have you tried a low carb diet? Several people in this group have found that helps with ADD symptoms. I eat this way, and it definitely feels better (no blood sugar lows for one thing) though I can’t really say what it does for my ADD.
I will have to find out what a CAB is. I may be able to try it. Unfortunately if I don’t find work soon, I will be eating what ever I can find or beg. Best wishes, – Vic
Response:
"I will have to figure out what a CARB is" is what that was supposed to be. I sometimes miss letters too. – Vic
Response:
- I seem to be able to stick to many tasks that I would wander off from previously. ~ VIc Don’t you have a JOB?
Response:
Don’t you have a JOB?
Unfortunately no and I am now desperate for funds, with a family and mortgage and my wife works at a min-wage job. I have been out of work for almost a year and have been very sick most of the winter with constant cough, a bout of Pneumonia, chronic Bronchitis and Asthma attacks. I have had a few interviews since January but it is a bit much to think someone will hire someone who looks and sounds like he is dying. I need a heat wave and everything will clear up. – Vic
Response:
Hi all: Well in my frustration with my current situation, and the way the Ritalin was NOT working as well as it had, I did a two day drug free holiday. I even skipped my BP medication [not likely a good idea].
Skipping BP meds is an especially bad idea for some people because some BP meds can cause rebound hypertension. You need to know whether your BP med causes rebound hypertension so you’ll be aware of whether you’re putting yourself at risk for a stroke if you decide to skip it. Clonidine is the worst offender, but there are others. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rebound_hypertension –Patti
Response:
Question:
Hi, I haven’t had another episode of outright sickness since I posted. I suppose I could have had an actual 8 hour flu or something that was unrelated. I do still get mild headaches, but an Advil or 2 takes care of them. The headaches are clearly a result of the IR going out of my system. The XR doesn’t seem to bother me. My main concern now is with the actual Adderall. Having tried several dosing strategies, I simply cannot get a consistent benefit out of the medication. I decreased my dosage back to 7.5IR in the morning and 15XR at 1:00. It worked wonderfully on Tuesday and Wednesday. I mean it really works. I’m able to have a normal day, and the thought of any negative addictive behaviour doesn’t even cross my mind. I’m able to do my job with focus, read, etc. Then Thursday – the effects just vanish. I feel like s*it when I wake up – sort of like a hangover without having drunk anything the night before. I feel like I’ve overslept (but I haven’t) and feel like that all day. I have no energy. I go into ’stare’ mode most of the day. This is the best way I can describe my ADD. Have you ever just sort of stared off into space – sort of a "earth to whoever" moment? You can even be aware that you’re staring, and be quite content to just sit there and stare at nothing for a few more minutes. This is what happens to be for hours. Usually I can fight it and force myself to do something, but it’s as if my brain would just prefer to keep mentally staring off into space. Bleh. I can be out jogging, and have to stop because of the mental willpower it takes to force myself to not just sit, stare and think gets to be too tiresome. The ADD ? "Do you feel like you’re driven by a motor?" perfectly describes this feeling. The medication, when working, stops this. But it’s REALLY annoying to have it actually work for a few days now and then – and get to remember what it’s like to be able to focus (without forcing myself to) for the first time in 5+ years – but then just have it stop working for days. So I increased the doseage back to the prescribed amount on Sunday (10IR morning 20XR lunchtime) and it just makes me very anxious, tired and…well depressed really. No positive effects though. I’ve reverted back to 7.5/15 as I can’t handle anymore obviously. This is very depressing, because it works for a couple of days and I get some hope – and then it just COMPLETELY quits. Nothing, zilch. The same thing happened when I tried just 10mg XR once a day – it worked for a couple of days but most of the time nothing. My diet does not change and I have not had any alcohol for 10+ days. I do not take any other meds. Really there are no factors that change on a day to day basis – so I have no idea why this Adderall will not remain consistent. If anyone has any ideas as to what on earth is wrong with my brain, I’d like to hear them. Thanks for all of your replies! BTW – in response to this actual message – I have taken Wellbutrin (alone) with no positive effects (up to 300MG) apart from it helping with ADD symptoms for the first 5 days. Strattera worked semi OK in its odd sort of way – but the side effects (stomach, acid reflux, etc.) were severe.
Response:
My first thought is inconsistent levels. I don’t see you holding to anything for long enough to become leveled off. I could be wrong since I am new at this too, but my impression is that you have to stay at one level for more than a week to accurately judge the effect. Find out for yourself, don’t count on newsgroup info, least of all mine… But… why don’t you try two weeks of taking the same dosage at the same time every day? Can’t hurt and might help. Good luck.
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I started on 10mg XR for a week. It helped 3 out of the 7 days – very inconsistent. I noticed that on the 3 days it helped (really helped!), it dropped off at exactly 4:00-4:15. Following my prescribed dosing schedule, I increased to 20mg the second week. The first day, no effects. The second day I was tired, yet extremely anxious/nervous. For days 3-6 I went back to 10mg and had no benefit and no effects. For days 7 I increased back to 20mg and had no effects. I should note that I drank several beers on 2 or 3 occasions during this time, until I realized that being hungover on Adderall was encouragement enough to drop that activity. I’ve since had no problems not drinking mainly because the Adderall seems to naturally help me with stay away from any non-drug related addictive behavior (overeating, drinking, gambling, etc – you name it). The dr then adjusted me 15mg XR in the morning and 10mg IR/SR (generic) at 4:00pm. This worked great on Saturday, although I had slight insomnia that night. I had one of my best days in months. On Sunday, I took my 15mg XR in the morning and was feeling fine until 11 or so when I became extremely tired. After trying to sleep (insomnia) for a few hours, I was back to my normal foggy ADD self. I thought the problem might be lack of sleep, so I held off on the 10mg of IR and decided to go to bed early. Yet, around 7pm, I started getting horrible symptoms. I developed severe cold chills, and a terrible migraine consisting mainly of sharp pains every 10 seconds on the right side of my brain (primarily). I ached all over and shook for about 5 hours (freezing) with fever like symptoms. I didn’t have a thermometer handy to check my temp, but I certainly felt like I was on fire. I took one advil and 1/4 does of Tylenol Sleep and I finally fell asleep but the headaches and cold woke me up several times. This morning, the cold chills have subsided by 75% but my headache is still there. My vision is blurred and my I’m very fatigued – but most of it is out of fear to move my head (since it feels like it may just blow up). I took 5mg of IR Adderall and 2 Advil which will hopefully help me enough to get to my dr’s appt. later. So I’ve either had too much of this med, which I was temporarily counterbalancing with alcohol (depressant) or I’m just experiencing severe ‘comedown’ symptoms. Although it was common for me to drink beer 2 or 3 days a week, I’ve stopped that in the past for months with no problems. I suppose, however, that the Adderall could be boosting the effect of Alcohol Withdrawal – in other words, just stopping drinking doesn’t seem to bother me – but toss in a stimulant (and take away the depressent) and it does. Obviously, the long term effects of drinking have no doubt contributed to my ADHD (as I’ve learned from recent research). Nevertheless, these odd effects are something I have to live with or abandon the medicine – and I wondered if anyone experienced anything similar or had any thoughts. On a side note, I don’t drink caffeine (ever) or take any other medication. I have no history of drug use either (the one addiction I always stayed clear of). Thanks!
I haven’t heard anybody else say this, and everybody here is probably tired of hearing it, but anyway… stimulants only work for me if I don’t eat starch (bread, pasta, potatoes, corn, etc.). When I eat starch while taking stimulants, I get jittery in the daytime and can’t get to sleep at night, and after a few days I’m exhausted and irritable. As long as I stay away from the starch, the stimulants work pretty well. I can have a little sugar as long as I have protein on board, like sugar in my coffee, or one piece of chocolate, and I eat fruit and milk at night, but if I have starch at night, the stimulants make me jittery for half the next day. I have proven this to myself over and over by cheating. I also lost some weight and my blood studies look a lot better, and I *feel* better. –Patti
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi, I started on 10mg XR for a week. It helped 3 out of the 7 days – very inconsistent. I noticed that on the 3 days it helped (really helped!), it dropped off at exactly 4:00-4:15. Following my prescribed dosing schedule, I increased to 20mg the second week. The first day, no effects. The second day I was tired, yet extremely anxious/nervous. For days 3-6 I went back to 10mg and had no benefit and no effects. For days 7 I increased back to 20mg and had no effects. I should note that I drank several beers on 2 or 3 occasions during this time, until I realized that being hungover on Adderall was encouragement enough to drop that activity. I’ve since had no problems not drinking mainly because the Adderall seems to naturally help me with stay away from any non-drug related addictive behavior (overeating, drinking, gambling, etc – you name it). The dr then adjusted me 15mg XR in the morning and 10mg IR/SR (generic) at 4:00pm. This worked great on Saturday, although I had slight insomnia that night. I had one of my best days in months. On Sunday, I took my 15mg XR in the morning and was feeling fine until 11 or so when I became extremely tired. After trying to sleep (insomnia) for a few hours, I was back to my normal foggy ADD self. I thought the problem might be lack of sleep, so I held off on the 10mg of IR and decided to go to bed early. Yet, around 7pm, I started getting horrible symptoms. I developed severe cold chills, and a terrible migraine consisting mainly of sharp pains every 10 seconds on the right side of my brain (primarily). I ached all over and shook for about 5 hours (freezing) with fever like symptoms. I didn’t have a thermometer handy to check my temp, but I certainly felt like I was on fire.
It sounds like you had an elevated temp but you could have caught the flu. Are you sure your problem was med related? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I took one advil and 1/4 does of Tylenol Sleep and I finally fell asleep but the headaches and cold woke me up several times. This morning, the cold chills have subsided by 75% but my headache is still there. My vision is blurred and my I’m very fatigued – but most of it is out of fear to move my head (since it feels like it may just blow up). I took 5mg of IR Adderall and 2 Advil which will hopefully help me enough to get to my dr’s appt. later. So I’ve either had too much of this med, which I was temporarily counterbalancing with alcohol (depressant) or I’m just experiencing severe ‘comedown’ symptoms. Although it was common for me to drink beer 2 or 3 days a week, I’ve stopped that in the past for months with no problems. I suppose, however, that the Adderall could be boosting the effect of Alcohol Withdrawal – in other words, just stopping drinking doesn’t seem to bother me – but toss in a stimulant (and take away the depressent) and it does.
How much were you drinking? Obviously, the long term effects of drinking have no doubt contributed to my ADHD (as I’ve learned from recent research).
Really? Drinking problems could mess up your life in a number of ways but drinking does not cause ADHD. I’m not sure what you mean. Nevertheless, these odd effects are something I have to live with or abandon the medicine – and I wondered if anyone experienced anything similar or had any thoughts.
If the high temp and headache was caused by the med you have a serious problem. Consult your prescribing physician immediately. On a side note, I don’t drink caffeine (ever) or take any other medication. I have no history of drug use either (the one addiction I always stayed clear of).
Caffeine is irrelevant to this situation. _g
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi, I started on 10mg XR for a week. It helped 3 out of the 7 days – very inconsistent. I noticed that on the 3 days it helped (really helped!), it dropped off at exactly 4:00-4:15. Following my prescribed dosing schedule, I increased to 20mg the second week. The first day, no effects. The second day I was tired, yet extremely anxious/nervous. For days 3-6 I went back to 10mg and had no benefit and no effects. For days 7 I increased back to 20mg and had no effects. I should note that I drank several beers on 2 or 3 occasions during this time, until I realized that being hungover on Adderall was encouragement enough to drop that activity. I’ve since had no problems not drinking mainly because the Adderall seems to naturally help me with stay away from any non-drug related addictive behavior (overeating, drinking, gambling, etc – you name it). The dr then adjusted me 15mg XR in the morning and 10mg IR/SR (generic) at 4:00pm. This worked great on Saturday, although I had slight insomnia that night. I had one of my best days in months. On Sunday, I took my 15mg XR in the morning and was feeling fine until 11 or so when I became extremely tired. After trying to sleep (insomnia) for a few hours, I was back to my normal foggy ADD self. I thought the problem might be lack of sleep, so I held off on the 10mg of IR and decided to go to bed early. Yet, around 7pm, I started getting horrible symptoms. I developed severe cold chills, and a terrible migraine consisting mainly of sharp pains every 10 seconds on the right side of my brain (primarily). I ached all over and shook for about 5 hours (freezing) with fever like symptoms. I didn’t have a thermometer handy to check my temp, but I certainly felt like I was on fire.
I abused Dexedrine for a period of about 6 months before extreme (and I mean *extreme*) health problems prevented me from using it again. I was an addict, using it mostly for recreational purposes, like a tweaker would, and I couldn’t stop myself from going back time and time again because it was SO – DAMN – GOOD. I think I learned from that. But then I became an alcoholic shortly after. However you seem to be taking amphetamines as directed, from what I read, and not at night (the way I did it, for a hell of a buzz–don’t try this unless you want to become a tweaker.) So, it seems interesting that you have a whole plethora of inconsistent drug actions, and needing to adjust your dosage several times. I’ll say a few things that might help with your Adderall situation. One is if you were an addict to hard stimulants at some point (such as coke or meth, even prescription speed the way I did it), you probably will get highly inconsistent effects from all stimulants (possibly even caffeine), depending on how long you’ve been away from stimulant abuse. I took up alcoholism after speed addiction, so I’m *sorta* your situation in reverse. Nonetheless, since alcohol alters so many different brain chemicals, I would say prior alcoholism (which i assume from your report) may also cause inconsistencies in the effect of stronger stimulants. That also depends on how long you’ve been free of alcohol addiction. But, not as much so as prior stimulant abuse, of course. Alcohol and amphetamines are both *very* potent substances, and they tend to cause potent changes in your brain that aren’t fully undone until you’ve gone through a *long* period of sobriety. They both cause neurochemical imbalances; e.g. if you abused amphetamines for a relatively long time, it will likely alter the psychoactive effect of alcohol in uncertain ways–and vice versa. Although these overlapping effects I speak of will vary from person to person, they may be slight in some, and strong in others. As for your idea that alcoholism contributes to ADHD, it does and it doesn’t. I’ve been through alcohol, and I do have ADD. So what I’ve noticed is that it *does* make you mentally slower, as in lower short-term memory, greater difficulty concentrating, tougher to learn complex procedures. It does damage your thinking system. But it won’t cause ADD in a person who doesn’t have it, it will just make them slower than usual. You may want to try something less potent, like Wellbutrin or Strattera, but as far I know, drinking and also alcohol withdrawal are a very bad idea with both of those. And though drinking with Adderall isn’t heavily contraindicated, it is still likely to cause some odd effects. Talk that over with your doctor.
Response:
Hi, I haven’t had another episode of outright sickness since I posted. I suppose I could have had an actual 8 hour flu or something that was unrelated. I do still get mild headaches, but an Advil or 2 takes care of them. The headaches are clearly a result of the IR going out of my system. The XR doesn’t seem to bother me. My main concern now is with the actual Adderall. Having tried several dosing strategies, I simply cannot get a consistent benefit out of the medication. I decreased my dosage back to 7.5IR in the morning and 15XR at 1:00.
Why is the 1:00 dose higher than the morning dose? You are possibly creating a midafternoon peak and evening crash in your dopamine levels. It worked wonderfully on Tuesday and Wednesday. I mean it really works. I’m able to have a normal day, and the thought of any negative addictive behaviour doesn’t even cross my mind. I’m able to do my job with focus, read, etc. Then Thursday – the effects just vanish. I feel like s*it when I wake up – sort of like a hangover without having drunk anything the night before. I feel like I’ve overslept (but I haven’t) and feel like that all day. I have no energy. I go into ’stare’ mode most of the day. This is the best way I can describe my ADD.
Are you that way normally with your ADD or is there a response to the drug too? Have you ever just sort of stared off into space – sort of a "earth to whoever" moment? You can even be aware that you’re staring, and be quite content to just sit there and stare at nothing for a few more minutes. This is what happens to be for hours.
Call it praying or meditating and feel better about yourself. Usually I can fight it and force myself to do something, but it’s as if my brain would just prefer to keep mentally staring off into space. Bleh. I can be out jogging, and have to stop because of the mental willpower it takes to force myself to not just sit, stare and think gets to be too tiresome. The ADD ? "Do you feel like you’re driven by a motor?" perfectly describes this feeling. The medication, when working, stops this. But it’s REALLY annoying to have it actually work for a few days now and then – and get to remember what it’s like to be able to focus (without forcing myself to) for the first time in 5+ years – but then just have it stop working for days.
Sorry, there’s no guaranteed result. (Been there, done that.) So I increased the doseage back to the prescribed amount on Sunday (10IR morning 20XR lunchtime) and it just makes me very anxious, tired and…well depressed really. No positive effects though. I’ve reverted back to 7.5/15 as I can’t handle anymore obviously. This is very depressing, because it works for a couple of days and I get some hope – and then it just COMPLETELY quits. Nothing, zilch. The same thing happened when I tried just 10mg XR once a day – it worked for a couple of days but most of the time nothing. My diet does not change and I have not had any alcohol for 10+ days. I do not take any other meds. Really there are no factors that change on a day to day basis – so I have no idea why this Adderall will not remain consistent. If anyone has any ideas as to what on earth is wrong with my brain, I’d like to hear them.
Keep it simple. Call it ADD. _g
Response:
<snippage occurs Tuesday and Wednesday. Then Thursday on Sunday And here it is Monday. Am I wrong about the need to stay at one dosage for more than a week or two before making judgements about the effectiveness of a dose level?
Probably for a stimulant. Anti-depressants can take weeks to be effective. The positive effects of stims are generally rapid. _g
Response:
<snippage occurs Tuesday and Wednesday. Then Thursday on Sunday
And here it is Monday. Am I wrong about the need to stay at one dosage for more than a week or two before making judgements about the effectiveness of a dose level?
Response:
<snippage occurs Tuesday and Wednesday. Then Thursday on Sunday And here it is Monday. Am I wrong about the need to stay at one dosage for more than a week or two before making judgements about the effectiveness of a dose level?
Yup, it’s hard to judge the effectivity without some consistancy in dosing over a period of time. The form I was given to register symptoms and side effects when I tried Ritalin was intended to be filled in from a week before starting medication and for 2-4 weeks after starting medication or "until effects are clear". Oh, if anyone’s interested I can email a copy of the form though I do think providing something like that is the prescribing doc’s responsibility. Vashti
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I started on 10mg XR for a week. It helped 3 out of the 7 days – very inconsistent. I noticed that on the 3 days it helped (really helped!), it dropped off at exactly 4:00-4:15. Following my prescribed dosing schedule, I increased to 20mg the second week. The first day, no effects. The second day I was tired, yet extremely anxious/nervous. For days 3-6 I went back to 10mg and had no benefit and no effects. For days 7 I increased back to 20mg and had no effects. I should note that I drank several beers on 2 or 3 occasions during this time, until I realized that being hungover on Adderall was encouragement enough to drop that activity. I’ve since had no problems not drinking mainly because the Adderall seems to naturally help me with stay away from any non-drug related addictive behavior (overeating, drinking, gambling, etc – you name it). The dr then adjusted me 15mg XR in the morning and 10mg IR/SR (generic) at 4:00pm. This worked great on Saturday, although I had slight insomnia that night. I had one of my best days in months. On Sunday, I took my 15mg XR in the morning and was feeling fine until 11 or so when I became extremely tired. After trying to sleep (insomnia) for a few hours, I was back to my normal foggy ADD self. I thought the problem might be lack of sleep, so I held off on the 10mg of IR and decided to go to bed early. Yet, around 7pm, I started getting horrible symptoms. I developed severe cold chills, and a terrible migraine consisting mainly of sharp pains every 10 seconds on the right side of my brain (primarily). I ached all over and shook for about 5 hours (freezing) with fever like symptoms. I didn’t have a thermometer handy to check my temp, but I certainly felt like I was on fire.
Are you a caffeine user? Caffeine withdrawl is consistent with these symptoms. Also, some of the stimulants can enhance the headache from caffeine withdrawl. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I took one advil and 1/4 does of Tylenol Sleep and I finally fell asleep but the headaches and cold woke me up several times. This morning, the cold chills have subsided by 75% but my headache is still there. My vision is blurred and my I’m very fatigued – but most of it is out of fear to move my head (since it feels like it may just blow up). I took 5mg of IR Adderall and 2 Advil which will hopefully help me enough to get to my dr’s appt. later. So I’ve either had too much of this med, which I was temporarily counterbalancing with alcohol (depressant) or I’m just experiencing severe ‘comedown’ symptoms. Although it was common for me to drink beer 2 or 3 days a week, I’ve stopped that in the past for months with no problems. I suppose, however, that the Adderall could be boosting the effect of Alcohol Withdrawal – in other words, just stopping drinking doesn’t seem to bother me – but toss in a stimulant (and take away the depressent) and it does. Obviously, the long term effects of drinking have no doubt contributed to my ADHD (as I’ve learned from recent research). Nevertheless, these odd effects are something I have to live with or abandon the medicine – and I wondered if anyone experienced anything similar or had any thoughts. On a side note, I don’t drink caffeine (ever) or take any other medication. I have no history of drug use either (the one addiction I always stayed clear of). Thanks!
Response:
Hi, I started on 10mg XR for a week. It helped 3 out of the 7 days – very inconsistent. I noticed that on the 3 days it helped (really helped!), it dropped off at exactly 4:00-4:15. Following my prescribed dosing schedule, I increased to 20mg the second week. The first day, no effects. The second day I was tired, yet extremely anxious/nervous. For days 3-6 I went back to 10mg and had no benefit and no effects. For days 7 I increased back to 20mg and had no effects. I should note that I drank several beers on 2 or 3 occasions during this time, until I realized that being hungover on Adderall was encouragement enough to drop that activity. I’ve since had no problems not drinking mainly because the Adderall seems to naturally help me with stay away from any non-drug related addictive behavior (overeating, drinking, gambling, etc – you name it). The dr then adjusted me 15mg XR in the morning and 10mg IR/SR (generic) at 4:00pm. This worked great on Saturday, although I had slight insomnia that night. I had one of my best days in months. On Sunday, I took my 15mg XR in the morning and was feeling fine until 11 or so when I became extremely tired. After trying to sleep (insomnia) for a few hours, I was back to my normal foggy ADD self. I thought the problem might be lack of sleep, so I held off on the 10mg of IR and decided to go to bed early. Yet, around 7pm, I started getting horrible symptoms. I developed severe cold chills, and a terrible migraine consisting mainly of sharp pains every 10 seconds on the right side of my brain (primarily). I ached all over and shook for about 5 hours (freezing) with fever like symptoms. I didn’t have a thermometer handy to check my temp, but I certainly felt like I was on fire. I took one advil and 1/4 does of Tylenol Sleep and I finally fell asleep but the headaches and cold woke me up several times. This morning, the cold chills have subsided by 75% but my headache is still there. My vision is blurred and my I’m very fatigued – but most of it is out of fear to move my head (since it feels like it may just blow up). I took 5mg of IR Adderall and 2 Advil which will hopefully help me enough to get to my dr’s appt. later. So I’ve either had too much of this med, which I was temporarily counterbalancing with alcohol (depressant) or I’m just experiencing severe ‘comedown’ symptoms. Although it was common for me to drink beer 2 or 3 days a week, I’ve stopped that in the past for months with no problems. I suppose, however, that the Adderall could be boosting the effect of Alcohol Withdrawal – in other words, just stopping drinking doesn’t seem to bother me – but toss in a stimulant (and take away the depressent) and it does. Obviously, the long term effects of drinking have no doubt contributed to my ADHD (as I’ve learned from recent research). Nevertheless, these odd effects are something I have to live with or abandon the medicine – and I wondered if anyone experienced anything similar or had any thoughts. On a side note, I don’t drink caffeine (ever) or take any other medication. I have no history of drug use either (the one addiction I always stayed clear of). Thanks!
Response:
Question:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I don’t even have an ADD doc at the moment, and my ADD meds will be gone in a few days. So OHush you are in better shape than I. Apply for disability, and you’ll get medical care and free or nearly-free medication through Medicaid. This is a support group. If you insist on routinely making snide comments about other people’s posts, you should yourself be without any faults. You’re not.
Don’t you think that’s a pretty high standard? Most of us have trouble walking on water more than an inch deep but have no trouble whatsoever making snide comments. I have tried many meds and discovered many side effects, but I’m getting better at roasting my own coffee. _g
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I don’t even have an ADD doc at the moment, and my ADD meds will be gone in a few days. So OHush you are in better shape than I. Apply for disability, and you’ll get medical care and free or nearly-free medication through Medicaid. This is a support group. If you insist on routinely making snide comments about other people’s posts, you should yourself be without any faults. You’re not. Don’t you think that’s a pretty high standard? Most of us have trouble walking on water more than an inch deep but have no trouble whatsoever making snide comments. I have tried many meds and discovered many side effects, but I’m getting better at roasting my own coffee. _g
There’s a difference between benign sarcasm a la george and the kind of thing she tends to say to me.
Response:
"There’s a difference between benign sarcasm a la george and the kind of thing she tends to say to me." Hush what?
Response:
"There’s a difference between benign sarcasm a la george and the kind of thing she tends to say to me." Hush what?
Frinstance: http://groups.google.com/group/alt.support.attn-deficit/msg/f104c07b6… O, vous
Question:
"There are important implications if ADD is indeed a vulnerability factor for the development of PTSD in terms of preventative treatment of ADD symptoms in at risk population (e.g. military inductees) or pharmacological treatment selection in patients with comorbid ADD and PTSD. Defining vulnerabilities for trauma-related psychiatric disorders may have implications for forensic-psychiatric evaluations of psychologic damages in civil negligence litigations. Some individuals with significant vulnerabilities may develop PTSD after exposure to an event that does not fulfill the criteria of stressor as defined in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition" (DSM-IV). The resulting psychiatric damage may be compensable under the legal maxim, "The victim is taken as he is found." ~ Michal Kunz, M.D. Yes, understood. Thank you for explaining. New York State Psychiatric Association http://www.nyspsych.org/public/components/societytools/admin/viewNewn…
Response:
Suicidal Risk A critical step in preventing suicide is to identify and understand the risk factors that contribute to it. A risk factor is anything that increases the likelihood that persons will harm themselves. Risk factors are not causes, but are contributors to unhealthy behavior and outcomes. (CDC: 2004) A population-based study confirms that not all individuals and regions are equally at risk . Maintaining a favorable balance of protective vs. risk factors is key to preventing harmful behavior. Targeting efforts to those harboring actual risk should contribute to a rational allocation of resources and to achieving desired outcomes. Risk factors may be biological, psychological, or social in nature, and can exist in the individual, family and environment. Risk Factors The Department of Health and Human Services has identified the following risk factors for suicide: * Previous suicide attempt(s) * History of mental disorders, especially depression * History of alcohol and substance abuse * Family history of suicide * Family history of child maltreatment * Feelings of hopelessness * Impulsive or aggressive tendencies * Barriers to accessing mental health treatment * Loss (relational, social, work, or financial) * Physical illness * Easy access to lethal means * Unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and substance abuse disorders or suicidal thoughts * Cultural and religious beliefs – for instance, the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma * Local epidemics of suicide * Isolation, a feeling of being cut off from other people Protective Factors Protective factors buffer people from the risks associated with suicide. A number of protective factors have been identified: * Effective clinical care for mental, physical, and substance abuse disorders * Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions and support for help seeking * Family and community support * Support from ongoing medical and mental health care relationships * Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution, and nonviolent handling of disputes * Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support self-preservation instincts (DHHS: 1999) Gary L. Spielmann, M.A., M.S. Director of Project Management & Chair Suicide Prevention Working Group New York State Office of Mental Health PLEASE NOTE ~ Protective Factors ~ EFFECTIVE Clinical Care http://www.omh.state.ny.us/omhweb/savinglives/Vol1_TheChallenge.htm
Response:
"While the main goal of the SPEAK campaign is education and awareness to prevent suicide, it is hoped that SPEAK’s broad-based public health approach will help to mitigate the stigma associated with seeking help for psychological distress. An important message of the SPEAK campaign Is to ~ ASK for help When an individual Or someone they care for NEEDS it. SPEAK is available in multi-media (print, electronic, website) in both English and Spanish, with a Chinese version in production. Feature articles on SPEAK have appeared in Governing magazine, Mental Health Weekly and Behavioral Healthcare Tomorrow." Suicide Prevention Working Group New York State Office of Mental Health CLINICAL PEARL ~ Call Back ~ ! http://www.omh.state.ny.us/omhweb/savinglives/Vol1_TheChallenge.htm
Response:
"Another finding to consider is ~ That an individual who attempts, but does not complete, suicide, is actually at higher risk for eventual suicide than he/she was before the initial attempt. Apparently, once the threshold of self-destructive action is crossed, it is much easier for the would-be suicidal person to cross a second or third time." CLINICAL PEARL ~ Do NOT Let the Crisis Reach That Point, A Life & Brain Is Altered Forever, Or At Least, In This Motal Life
Response:
Action Steps 1. Developing resilience is a personal journey, and no two journeys are exactly the same. However, perseverance and trust in one’s ability to manage risks and stressors are important in building confidence and insight. Knowing when and where to seek outside assistance when needed is a personal strength, not a weakness. CLINICAL PEARL ~ Trust In One’s Mental Healthcare Professional Builds Confiedence & Insight ~ ! Knowing Where NOT to GO Is a Personal Strength, Not A Weaness Knowing When TO Sue, When Your Life Was NeedLessly Endangered Is a Personal Strength, NOT A Weakness ~ !
Response:
Action Steps 6. Suicide survivors are at greater risk for complicated grief. 9. Access to care must be assured to optimize the chances of recovery from mental illness. http://www.omh.state.ny.us/omhweb/savinglives/Vol1_ActionSteps.htm
Response:
!Be Warned! Sign Says … ~ * ~ ~ * ~ A Sign, A Boarded Shingle Hung Out TO Dry ~ * ~ ! * ! A Clinical Instrument Whining In The Key Of C ~ ! * ~ ~ ~ * Suicide Resilience Scale * ~ A Clinical Measure Of ~ Revenge Level & Determination To SUE the Shit Out of The Stinking Rotten Incompetent Bastards ~ * ~ Reference* Range ~ 1 to !0 1 = Indifference, aka, Near Death [Alert family to severe risk]. 5 = Waffling [Likely requires medication]. !0 = Highly Driven, Effervescent Motivation, A MUST WIN Scenario [You got a survivor here!]. ~ * ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ * Beta version. Yes ~ A Morning Wood Roadside Semi ~ OTIC * Dogging Arts * Fogging Minds * It’s a Star * * ~ * ~ Blog, or dog? Who knows. But if you see my lost pup, please bring him home! I got Leon a brand-new bone. http://journals.aol.com/virginiaz/DreamingofLeonardo
Response:
Question:
alllergic reaction lactic acid build-up reduced dopamine synthesis [pseudo-Parkinson's] poor lymphatic drainage high blood-pressure poor peripheral circulation magnesium deficiency auto-immune disease exacerbation, from allergic reaction to medication etcetera. notice cause and efffect, do what’s right, avoid exacerbations. simple as that.
Response:
calcium-channel turgid cell walls, poor reperfussion, magnesium helps that …
Response:
movement, increased blood circulation, reduced edema, all good for natural joint lubrication. also try Omega fish oil & primrose oil to reduce inflammation [TNF, one of the body's inflammatory factors, that fish oil helps reduce, blocks the synthesis of, the production of]
Response:
I do have stiff neck and shoulders. I use fingers to massage it until it doesn’t hurt anymore. Point a few fingers to the skin and push (so that the skin is dragged and does not move relatively to the finger) then make circular massages, or straight ping-pong movement orthogonal to the muscle that is stiff. I learnt the massaging technique when I was referred to a physiotherapist for another problem.
Response:
Hello INTRO: My ADD symptoms are close connected to my body stiffness/muscle soreness (for example a stiff neck), and I am interested in hearing from people with similar experiences, esp. how you fit in the ADDScape, if you have effect of Ritalin etc. Also if somebody knows some kind of theory explaining this, and of course remedies. (Please be a bit more specific than "Yoga", "Massage" etc.) This stiffness is not necessarily stress-related – it can also be from physical exercises or sickness. For example if I have a cold I am very reduced, but with a good one hour full body massage I feel better than normal! I often find that certain kinds of physical exercise helps, esp. swimming and yoga-like activities. (Not the typical ADD exercises – when I feel relatively good I prefer things like Step aerobics). Last time I tried Ritalin, I had a very stiff neck. The Ritalin would increase this stiffness, and make things worse. The same is the case with many supplements. I am not typical ADHD, the closest match I can find is dr Amens "Overfocused ADD" – with a low level of both Dopamine and Serotonin. I think my profile fits a bit with CFS, I also score high on Alexithymia. The shrink said something about epilepsy, but I haven’t looked closer into that. There are theories that tries to link ADD with a to shallow sleep. There could be a connection, perhaps in that stiffness decreases quality of sleep. Rivotril seemed to confirm this for me, for a few days It would be nice with some good answers 
I feel very lonely, as I have never heard or read about somebody similar to me! –Mike
Response:
Question:
Here is my situation: All of my life, i have been having problems with attention except for my interest in music. I study music and live by it 24 hours a day. I am a singer/songwriter. If you dan’t mind me saying so, it is what I do best. So I have tried balancing a life of music with work life. It has been destroying me and I end up having breakdowns from worklife. i make to a certain point in a company through all kinds of stress until i can no longer take it and I have to quit. I was made a manager in April and the demands of upper management and handling staff was getting to me and I found myself angry and resentful of everyone. Meanwhile, I stopped writing music and being who I really am in order to make a living. Then my lower back gave in on me and i had to go on workers comp for a month. in July I was diagnosed as having ADD. It made an immediate change in my life for the better when I started on Ritalin. Here’s why: I could get everything done and I could be who everyone else wants me to be. i was making lists and completing everything on the list. I got back together with the mother of my 2 year old daughter. My life seemed to have some hope left. Then by October, I needed 80 mg of Ritalin to be the same way and then I started having panic attacks and withdrawl symptoms when I ran out of medication way before the month was over. All of a sudden the carpet was swept out from underneath me. My Doctor then took me off of the drug and began to treat some underlying symptoms I had like my paranoia which I can’t seem to dispose of…anyway, he’s put me on Respertol and Prozac. It doesn’t work at all. Now I have just ended my relationship with my girlfriend, I have no job to go to and no car, I’ve put on 25 pounds and I have no idea what to do. Stimulant medication is the only thing that ever worked for me. I have a sleep apnea as well that is causing ADD symptoms but I went to a specialist who told me there was nothing physically wrong with me. The specialist has recieved tons of complaints about being incompetent. The only other thing I can do is drive 500 miles to see someone. I have no money whatsoever to do such a thing. What am I going to do? I can’t work until this is resolved. i am so tired of having to quit jobs over this stuff and have to suffer because of whatever it is that is making me sick all of the time. My life is a complete mess. The thing that really sucks is that I have worked my whole life trying to be a musician but can’t get a foot in the door. i have suffered so much for being one but there are so many people knocking down the same doors that it’s nearly impossible for a real artist to get heard. If I could get in there I am sure i would be healthy but there seems to be no chance without being rich first to pay for all the recording and crap. Is it ADD that is ruining my life or is it wanting a recording career but not having it that is ruining it?
Response:
I’ve found the answer: it means buying some crack, getting high, and then watch life become a deep narrow tunnel of darkness. I know why people give up, because they never had a chance to begin with. Why try? Turn on, tune in, drop out!
Response:
Well, lsotr, crack isn’t the answer, that is for sure. I can not believe anyone would suggest such a stupid thing. Want to make your life worse, go buy some illegal drugs. That will fix you up for sure!! What an idiot. My advice to you is PRAY, PRAY PRAY. I have seen my God work miracles and HE will work a miracle in your life too. Trust Him. Believe. The answer lies with HIM and HIM alone. Don’t get me wrong, I am no where near perfect. I do things daily that disappoint Him and I am well aware of it. But, praise Him, he loves me anyway. He forgives me and He is always there for me. He has seen me through some really dark days and He will see you through too, if you’ll rest on Him. May God Bless you. Rosasharn
Response:
<< Well, lsotr, crack isn’t the answer, that is for sure. I can not believe anyone would suggest such a stupid thing. Want to make your life worse, go buy some illegal drugs. That will fix you up for sure!! What an idiot. My advice to you is PRAY, PRAY PRAY. I have seen my God work miracles and HE will work a miracle in your life too. Trust Him. Believe. The answer lies with HIM and HIM alone. Don’t get me wrong, I am no where near perfect. I do things daily that disappoint Him and I am well aware of it. But, praise Him, he loves me anyway. He forgives me and He is always there for me. He has seen me through some really dark days and He will see you through too, if you’ll rest on Him. May God Bless you. Rosasharn She. _______ Blog, or dog? Who knows. But if you see my lost pup, please ping me! <A HREF="http://journals.aol.com/virginiaz/DreamingofLeonardo"http://journal s.aol.com/virginiaz/DreamingofLeonardo</A
Response:
I’ve found the answer: it means buying some crack, getting high, and then watch life become a deep narrow tunnel of darkness. I know why people give up, because they never had a chance to begin with. Why try? Turn on, tune in, drop out!
"Turn on, tune in, drop out!" used in this context is blasphemous, to say the least. My dear sanQ, do you even know where this quote came from? Timothy Leary stated these words in reference to LSD and enlightenment. He was a scholar and academician on a journey of self-discovery. Certainly, though, you must not be serious and just trying to get our attention. Well, you’ve got mine. What’s up? SDR
Response:
Question:
<< E.g. on a scale where 0% is your performance without medications and 100% is the performance of non-ADHD-sufferers, where do you locate your performance on medications? Huh? No med, You Deade? 0.00 % Nulled out numb, Hm? _______ Blog, or dog? Who knows. But if you see my lost pup, please ping me! <A HREF="http://journals.aol.com/virginiaz/DreamingofLeonardo"http://journal s.aol.com/virginiaz/DreamingofLeonardo</A
Response:
Hi all, I just found out that I most likely have ADD. Not seen doctor yet, not taking medications. I read past post on this newsgroup with google, and it seems to me that there are a lot of people with my symptom: good hearing without background noise but very bad hearing with background noise. It’s almost impossible for me to understand words between friends more distant than 1 meter from me when we are in non-perfectly-silent places like pubs, bars, parties, discos… This annoys me almost as much as all the rest of the ADD symptoms together. I’m very interested in knowing if this would improve on medications, and how much. E.g. on a scale where 0% is your performance without medications and 100% is the performance of non-ADHD-sufferers, where do you locate your performance on medications? Thanks in advance
Response:
Question:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I am new here and looking for a place to discuss adult ADD with others. I am 36 years old and have been in treatment for Anxiety and panic symptoms associated with depression. But a relative of mine has started seeing a doc who specializes in ADD. She brought me a rather long synopsis on the disorder and after reading it — it is like reading my daily journal. I have daily fights with myself to concentrate and to do what I need to do. I am easily distracted and have trouble focusing. I constantly mess with my fingernails to the point of feeling embarrassed about it. (i.e. while listening to someone, I sit and mess with my fingers. ) My treatment thus far, has helped reduce my anxiety about 90% but I do have flareups. This doctor is saying that anxiety could be a side effect of AD/HD in his writing. That is true. I think that might be the way it was with me. After I started meds for ADHD, a lot of my anxiety went away, and I am much better able to deal with it when it does come up. It could also be a reverse — your lack of focus and fidgeting could be a result of anxiety, too. I guess I just wanted to touch base and see if anyone else who had been diagnosed as anx/panic had actually seen some good results from co-ADHD treatment or replacing the treatment altogether with ADHD treatment? Yeah. At one time, my old therapist had diagnosed me major depression/anxiety disorder nos/personality disorder nos. I don’t know if she even considered the possibility of ADHD. I had to go specifically get tested to find out I had it. I am going to contact a doctor tomorrow. Just not sure if I should contact mine, or the family member’s doc. If it were me, I would start with your own doc (is this a psychiatrist or your family doc?). Tell him/her everything that you told us and see what he/she says. You don’t mention if you are on meds, or, if you are not, whether you would consider them. If you are already on meds or would consider them, then you might ask your doc about Wellbutrin. It’s an antidepressant with some stimulant properties that is used in the treatment of ADHD. It has relatively few side effects, insomnia and appetite suppresion being the main ones. It’s possible you could combine Wellbutrin with whatever you are taking now; the doc will help you decide whether that is a good idea or not.
thanks for the replys. I am on Lexapro. I can’t say I am absolutely happy with the way it works for me. I’ve been on it a year and it seems like it "de-motivates" me if that is a word. I was on zoloft and felt like it was an absolute gift. My anxiety was gone for years. My focus was good, etc. But it eventually wore off and stopped working. Now I feel confused most of the time – sometimes the confusion and lack of focus leads me down the anxiety path. — Using M2, Opera’s revolutionary e-mail client: http://www.opera.com/m2/
Response:
*sigh* I think you may have misunderstood my post. (I am not recommending a SPECT scan.)
I’d *love* to get one, though. A picture of my brain! :-)
Response:
thanks for the replys. I am on Lexapro. I can’t say I am absolutely happy with the way it works for me. I’ve been on it a year and it seems like it "de-motivates" me if that is a word. I was on zoloft and felt like it was an absolute gift. My anxiety was gone for years. My focus was good, etc. But it eventually wore off and stopped working.
I was on Lexapro for a few months. "De-motivated" is a good word for the way I felt. I also sweated very easily. Grateful to be done with it.
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : what test? you want i should get a brain scan? : I had a cat scan but the hospital won’t let me have it. *sigh* I think you may have misunderstood my post. (I am not recommending a SPECT scan.) There are two websites with screening tools: #1 is www.brainplace.com — Under "BRAIN SYSTEMS", click "Amen Interactive Brain Systems Checklist". #2 is www.amenclinic.com/ac/addtests/ Emma
101 questions? i think the speck scan would be easier.
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : what test? you want i should get a brain scan? : I had a cat scan but the hospital won’t let me have it. *sigh* I think you may have misunderstood my post. (I am not recommending a SPECT scan.) There are two websites with screening tools: #1 is www.brainplace.com — Under "BRAIN SYSTEMS", click "Amen Interactive Brain Systems Checklist". #2 is www.amenclinic.com/ac/addtests/ Emma
results: ADD Combined Type May be possible ADD Inattentive Type Not Probable Cingulate System Hyperactivity Highly Probable Limbic System Hyperactivity Highly Probable Basal Ganglia Hyperactivity Highly Probable Temporal Lobe System Highly Probable am I crazy?
Response:
I’d *love* to get one, though. A picture of my brain! :-)
thats why i want a copy of my cat scan. the hospital can’t understand that. they want to know what doctor i am getting it for.
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – thanks for the replys. I am on Lexapro. I can’t say I am absolutely happy with the way it works for me. I’ve been on it a year and it seems like it "de-motivates" me if that is a word. I was on zoloft and felt like it was an absolute gift. My anxiety was gone for years. My focus was good, etc. But it eventually wore off and stopped working. I was on Lexapro for a few months. "De-motivated" is a good word for the way I felt. I also sweated very easily. Grateful to be done with it.
What therapy are you using now if any? I’d like to get back to the way things were if at all possible. — Using M2, Opera’s revolutionary e-mail client: http://www.opera.com/m2/
Response:
I was on Lexapro for a few months. "De-motivated" is a good word for the way I felt. I also sweated very easily. Grateful to be done with it. What therapy are you using now if any? I’d like to get back to the way things were if at all possible.
With the Lexapro I was also taking 450mg of Welbutrin XL. I haven’t found an answer, yet. I am in the process of getting a more accurate diagnosis and trying different meds with a new doctor.
Response:
Dear Blarney, Hi. I am a Life Coach Expert specializing in helping people with ADD. Did you know many people who have ADD and are not correctly diagnosed and treated end up becoming depressed? Consequently, being treated with an ADD medication like Adderall extended release or Concerta might alleviate your ADD symptoms and your depression. Talk to your doctor. I wish you the best of luck. Michele Glance Rooney
Response:
Hi, I am new here and looking for a place to discuss adult ADD with others. I am 36 years old and have been in treatment for Anxiety and panic symptoms associated with depression. But a relative of mine has started seeing a doc who specializes in ADD. She brought me a rather long synopsis on the disorder and after reading it — it is like reading my daily journal. I have daily fights with myself to concentrate and to do what I need to do. I am easily distracted and have trouble focusing. I constantly mess with my fingernails to the point of feeling embarrassed about it. (i.e. while listening to someone, I sit and mess with my fingers. ) My treatment thus far, has helped reduce my anxiety about 90% but I do have flareups. This doctor is saying that anxiety could be a side effect of AD/HD in his writing. I guess I just wanted to touch base and see if anyone else who had been diagnosed as anx/panic had actually seen some good results from co-ADHD treatment or replacing the treatment altogether with ADHD treatment? I am going to contact a doctor tomorrow. Just not sure if I should contact mine, or the family member’s doc. — Using M2, Opera’s revolutionary e-mail client: http://www.opera.com/m2/
Response:
: Hi, : I am new here and looking for a place to discuss adult ADD with others. I : am 36 years old and have been in treatment for Anxiety and panic symptoms : associated with depression. But a relative of mine has started seeing a : doc who specializes in ADD. She brought me a rather long synopsis on the : disorder and after reading it — it is like reading my daily journal. Ofcourse. ADD/ADHD can cause anxiety and depression. Smart people who can’t accomplish what they shoudl in life can feel rage and depression. Those who are overwhelmed by internal disorganization tend to feel anxious. It makes perfect sense. My own anxiety disappeared with stimulant therapy. Try this online Add/ADHD test. www.brainplace.com Emma
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : Hi, : I am new here and looking for a place to discuss adult ADD with others. I : am 36 years old and have been in treatment for Anxiety and panic symptoms : associated with depression. But a relative of mine has started seeing a : doc who specializes in ADD. She brought me a rather long synopsis on the : disorder and after reading it — it is like reading my daily journal. Ofcourse. ADD/ADHD can cause anxiety and depression. Smart people who can’t accomplish what they shoudl in life can feel rage and depression. Those who are overwhelmed by internal disorganization tend to feel anxious. It makes perfect sense. My own anxiety disappeared with stimulant therapy. Try this online Add/ADHD test. www.brainplace.com
I assume the test is to figure out where the ADD test is on the website. But if you can’t find it, does that mean you do or don’t have ADD?
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : Hi, : I am new here and looking for a place to discuss adult ADD with others. I : am 36 years old and have been in treatment for Anxiety and panic symptoms : associated with depression. But a relative of mine has started seeing a : doc who specializes in ADD. She brought me a rather long synopsis on the : disorder and after reading it — it is like reading my daily journal. Ofcourse. ADD/ADHD can cause anxiety and depression. Smart people who can’t accomplish what they shoudl in life can feel rage and depression. Those who are overwhelmed by internal disorganization tend to feel anxious. It makes perfect sense. My own anxiety disappeared with stimulant therapy. Try this online Add/ADHD test. www.brainplace.com Emma
what test? you want i should get a brain scan? I had a cat scan but the hospital won’t let me have it.
Response:
Saw this post elsewhere and thought it would be of interest in this thread
Self diagnosis is generally not a good idea, especially for mental disorders. You’re much better off going to a mental health professional and letting them do what they’re trained to do. In the case of ADD, since some professionals don’t believe it even exists, or that it doesn’t exist in adults, you can suggest the possibility and see what he or she says, but I would wait until the official dx is in.
Response:
FWIW, I had been diagnosed as having anxiety, but the coping techniques the doc "prescribed" were ones I was already using! A few years later, my son’s (now 17, ADHD; the other is now 14 ADHD/gifted/asperger/SID) doc observed me while I was in attendance during his sport’s physical (it is policy that minors not be alone in the doc’s offices, expecially during physicals). He was going over my son’s medical history, as well as family medical history, and when he got the the ADHD, I shared that his brother had it, as well as some of my cousins. "And his mother’s ADHD?" he asked. I looked at him (we had been there 15 minutes) and asked, "Is it that apparent?" He told me to make an appointment, and we would discuss it.
I’m still surprised how in a "parents of ADHD kids support group" so few of the folks recognize that THEY have it too. Even knowing it’s heridetary. While I was unemployed earlier this year, I took some career training classes at the local unemployment office. It includes the typical examples for you to discuss in class. One was a classic description of someone with ADD. Of course the class material discussed a bunch of "strategies" for dealing with this person, none of which would have done any good. Bob Kaplow NAR # 18L TRA # "Impeach the TRA BoD" To reply, remove the TRABoD! <<< Kaplow Klips & Baffle: http://nira-rocketry.org/LeadingEdge/Phantom4000.pdf www.encompasserve.org/~kaplow_r/ www.nira-rocketry.org www.nar.org Save Model Rocketry from the HSA! http://www.space-rockets.com/congress.html
Response:
: what test? you want i should get a brain scan? : I had a cat scan but the hospital won’t let me have it. *sigh* I think you may have misunderstood my post. (I am not recommending a SPECT scan.) There are two websites with screening tools: #1 is www.brainplace.com — Under "BRAIN SYSTEMS", click "Amen Interactive Brain Systems Checklist". #2 is www.amenclinic.com/ac/addtests/ Emma
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I am new here and looking for a place to discuss adult ADD with others. I am 36 years old and have been in treatment for Anxiety and panic symptoms associated with depression. But a relative of mine has started seeing a doc who specializes in ADD. She brought me a rather long synopsis on the disorder and after reading it — it is like reading my daily journal. I have daily fights with myself to concentrate and to do what I need to do. I am easily distracted and have trouble focusing. I constantly mess with my fingernails to the point of feeling embarrassed about it. (i.e. while listening to someone, I sit and mess with my fingers. ) My treatment thus far, has helped reduce my anxiety about 90% but I do have flareups. This doctor is saying that anxiety could be a side effect of AD/HD in his writing.
That is true. I think that might be the way it was with me. After I started meds for ADHD, a lot of my anxiety went away, and I am much better able to deal with it when it does come up. It could also be a reverse — your lack of focus and fidgeting could be a result of anxiety, too. I guess I just wanted to touch base and see if anyone else who had been diagnosed as anx/panic had actually seen some good results from co-ADHD treatment or replacing the treatment altogether with ADHD treatment?
Yeah. At one time, my old therapist had diagnosed me major depression/anxiety disorder nos/personality disorder nos. I don’t know if she even considered the possibility of ADHD. I had to go specifically get tested to find out I had it. I am going to contact a doctor tomorrow. Just not sure if I should contact mine, or the family member’s doc.
If it were me, I would start with your own doc (is this a psychiatrist or your family doc?). Tell him/her everything that you told us and see what he/she says. You don’t mention if you are on meds, or, if you are not, whether you would consider them. If you are already on meds or would consider them, then you might ask your doc about Wellbutrin. It’s an antidepressant with some stimulant properties that is used in the treatment of ADHD. It has relatively few side effects, insomnia and appetite suppresion being the main ones. It’s possible you could combine Wellbutrin with whatever you are taking now; the doc will help you decide whether that is a good idea or not.
Response:
I guess I just wanted to touch base and see if anyone else who had been diagnosed as anx/panic had actually seen some good results from co-ADHD treatment or replacing the treatment altogether with ADHD treatment?
FWIW, I had been diagnosed as having anxiety, but the coping techniques the doc "prescribed" were ones I was already using! A few years later, my son’s (now 17, ADHD; the other is now 14 ADHD/gifted/asperger/SID) doc observed me while I was in attendance during his sport’s physical (it is policy that minors not be alone in the doc’s offices, expecially during physicals). He was going over my son’s medical history, as well as family medical history, and when he got the the ADHD, I shared that his brother had it, as well as some of my cousins. "And his mother’s ADHD?" he asked. I looked at him (we had been there 15 minutes) and asked, "Is it that apparent?" He told me to make an appointment, and we would discuss it. *That* was how I was diagnosed (correctly) with ADHD instead of anxiety–10 years after my sons had been, at the age of 34. After getting medication and more coping techniques, there has been a distinct improvement in my symptoms (I am more hyper than inattentive, despiet being female <G). If nothing else, asking a doc to look into the possibility of ADHD means that it could be ruled out, leaving you closer to a correct diagnosis, and effective treatment. Buny
Response:
Saw this post elsewhere and thought it would be of interest in this thread (** A Periodic FAQ ** *** ALL THE DIAGNOSES COVERED ARE LISTED BELOW ***) This is really great news. This is one link that will deliver as promised and will not disappoint!! ALL you are likely ever going to need to know, about EVERY common mental disorder not already commonly known, can be learned about through this link: http://tinyurl.com/4628s PROMISE. NO BETTER SINGLE LINK. It is like having your own free manual on the official definitions of all common (and not well-known) mental illnesses or psychological disorders. Diagnoses covered: PARANOID PERSONALITY DISORDER SCHIZOID PERSONALITY DISORDER SCHIZOTYPAL PERSONALITY DISORDER BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER ANTISOCIAL PERSONALITY DISORDER NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER HISTRIONIC PERSONALITY DISORDER OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE PERSONALITY DISORDER AVOIDANT PERSONALITY DISORDER DEPENDENT PERSONALITY DISORDER ACUTE STRESS DISORDER AGORAPHOBIA BIPOLAR DISORDERS BODY DYSMORPHIC DISORDER DYSTHYMIC DISORDER GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER HYPOCHONDRIASIS INTERMITTENT EXPLOSIVE DISORDER OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER MAJOR DEPRESSION PANIC DISORDER POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER SCHIZOPHRENIA & SIMILAR PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS SOCIAL PHOBIA SOMATIZATION DISORDER SPECIFIC (SIMPLE) PHOBIA ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER CONDUCT DISORDER OPPOSITIONAL DEFIANT DISORDER SEPARATION ANXIETY DISORDER
Response:
Question:
Here in Australia, we’re about 20 years behind you americans, etc, in the treatment of T.s.!! Actually, more like 30 here in Tasmania… so could anyone tell me how they came to use Nicotine patches for tic control…and if this is experimental, or common practice?
Response:
>so could anyone tell me how they came to use Nicotine patches for tic >control…and if this is experimental, o
The way we use it is to give our 8 yr old son one 7 mg patch once/week (for 24 hr). This seems to give him "protection" for the whole week. The literature shows it as being on a "as needed" basis, that is, some people seem to have the effects last different lengths of time, so you have to play around with it. This should be under a doctor’s supervision as there are some health implications with the heart. Check in MedScape for literature. Janice
Response:
J&S Bouchard wrote: > motor tics came back but nothing painful so far. We all accept the tics no > matter what they are. He has one that makes him grab my butt. And he also > has the one for grabbing his crotch. It’s just part of our daily living.
I like your attitude. I’ve never really seen my TS as a problem. If tics are painful that’s one thing, but if someone views them as socially unacceptable, that’s their problem, not mine. — MYTHOLOGY, n. The body of a primitive people’s beliefs concerning its origin, early history, heroes, deities and so forth, as distinguished from the true accounts which it invents later. -Ambrose Bierce, The Devil’s Dictionary.
Response:
"Jodi" <hellofromj…@NOSPAMcharter.net> wrote in message
news:10hf4plk9skc70@corp.supernews.com… > "J&S Bouchard" <j-…@nospamsympatico.ca> wrote in message > news:v8KRc.6222$a65.254312@news20.bellglobal.com… > > Keep in mind, my > > son is overweight, > Do you think your son is overweight from the med? My son gained 30 pounds > in 3 months when he started Tenex. Quite a gain since he was only > 60-something pounds when he started it. The dr said weight gain isn’t a > *normal* side effect, but it was obvious that is what happened. It did > level off, but whenever we took him off the med and restarted it later, he > would have another weight gain. > Jodi
I wish I could say yes… but no. Mat was well on his way to being overweight before the Clonidine. That kid can shovel in tons of food. And of course, he’s very sensitive to smells and taste so he barely eats the good stuff. At least he likes cucumber and I buy those by the truck load now. 
And after being on the Clonidine, he did not gain anything more… just his steady normal growth with the added pounds from before the Clonidine. It also doesn’t help that he prefers to be at home watching/playing video games, instead of going out with friends. He tires out real fast, sweats like crazy at the smallest activities… it’s a vicious circle: to become active, need to lose weight, to lose weight need to become active. But not only is he overweight, he’s also tall for his age. At 13 he stands at 5′7" and weighs 170lbs. He’s also big boned and extremely strong. When furniture needs to be moved around, I’ll ask him before my skinny hubby. lol — Joanne mom to Mat the Amazing!
Response:
"Sesgardner" <sesgard…@aol.com> wrote in message
news:20040809125006.23811.00003324@mb-m28.aol.com… > >Something about physical activity from gym at school, bringing their bp up > >and then when they stop the activity, the med in them will make the db fall > >right down, which then can cause them to lose conscience. > Wow. This could explain why my son had such a terrible time last year when they > had to run the mile. He became physically ill from it and had to come home. I > will check with his psychiatrist and see what he thinks.
It does seem like it could be a blood pressure thing. > My son is overweight also, and it’s definitely from medication, although the > doc says not. But he gained 30 pounds almost immediately upon starting > medication, and was always thin up until then. > The P.E. teacher has befriended my son, though, and even though she is the > most loathed P.E. teacher at the school, he actually requested her for next > year! Once she understood his difficulties, she bent over backwards to work > with him. I’m hoping that working with him will help her understand some of the > other kids as well.
Isn’t it wonderful when there’s a teacher out there looking out for your son. Mat has one too. He called me personally and told me that all his "kids" are like his own and he also told all the other teachers, not to mess with Mat, that they needed to see him first before scolding/punishing him. It feels good to know this. Now if that teacher is especially kind to your son, maybe she’s being misunderstood by the other kids? — Joanne mom to Mat the Amazing!
Response:
>Now if that teacher is especially kind to your son, maybe she’s being >misunderstood by the other kids? >– >Joanne >mom to Mat the Amazing!
Nope, don’t think so. She only became especially kind after many emails and phone calls from me explaining my son in great detail to her until she finally "got it." I was VERY patient and kind myself. Which was HARD to do, considering the difficulties my son was enduring in her class. Sara
Response:
"Sesgardner" <sesgard…@aol.com> wrote in message
news:20040810232515.16712.00002306@mb-m22.aol.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> >Now if that teacher is especially kind to your son, maybe she’s being > >misunderstood by the other kids? > >– > >Joanne > >mom to Mat the Amazing! > Nope, don’t think so. She only became especially kind after many emails and > phone calls from me explaining my son in great detail to her until she finally > "got it." I was VERY patient and kind myself. Which was HARD to do, considering > the difficulties my son was enduring in her class. > Sara
That’s too bad… It’s a good thing your son has you as mom to help him. Now all the other parents need to do the same. We have many teachers at the school that are really only there for the paycheck. And I can’t stand those ones. My son had one for two years in a row. Trying to explain to her about TS and rages and such: I get the old " all kids will act out once in a while" from her… after trying a few times, I just gave up and prayed Mat would be especially good while in her class. Which turned out to be the case. Phew! — Joanne mom to Mat the Amazing!
Response:
"J&S Bouchard" <j-…@nospamsympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:v8KRc.6222$a65.254312@news20.bellglobal.com… > Keep in mind, my > son is overweight,
Do you think your son is overweight from the med? My son gained 30 pounds in 3 months when he started Tenex. Quite a gain since he was only 60-something pounds when he started it. The dr said weight gain isn’t a *normal* side effect, but it was obvious that is what happened. It did level off, but whenever we took him off the med and restarted it later, he would have another weight gain. Jodi
Response:
>Something about physical activity from gym at school, bringing their bp up >and then when they stop the activity, the med in them will make the db fall >right down, which then can cause them to lose conscience.
Wow. This could explain why my son had such a terrible time last year when they had to run the mile. He became physically ill from it and had to come home. I will check with his psychiatrist and see what he thinks. My son is overweight also, and it’s definitely from medication, although the doc says not. But he gained 30 pounds almost immediately upon starting medication, and was always thin up until then. The P.E. teacher has befriended my son, though, and even though she is the most loathed P.E. teacher at the school, he actually requested her for next year! Once she understood his difficulties, she bent over backwards to work with him. I’m hoping that working with him will help her understand some of the other kids as well. Sara
Response:
>After a year of Clonidine, his doc said we needed to get him off >because it’s not good with boys starting puberty, because of it’s affect on >blood pressure.
Joanne, can you tell me more about this? My son takes Effexor, which can also affect blood pressure. What exactly did your doc say? Does bp go up at puberty? Yikes! Sara
Response:
"Sesgardner" <sesgard…@aol.com> wrote in message
news:20040809015502.06753.00002934@mb-m13.aol.com… > >After a year of Clonidine, his doc said we needed to get him off > >because it’s not good with boys starting puberty, because of it’s affect on > >blood pressure. > Joanne, can you tell me more about this? My son takes Effexor, which can also > affect blood pressure. What exactly did your doc say? Does bp go up at puberty? > Yikes! > Sara
Yes, he said at puberty there is quite a fluctuation in blood pressure. Something about physical activity from gym at school, bringing their bp up and then when they stop the activity, the med in them will make the db fall right down, which then can cause them to lose conscience. Keep in mind, my son is overweight, although the doc didn’t mention anything about the weight, I’m sure it must have played a role in his decision. — Joanne mom to Mat the Amazing!
Response:
"Roger D. Freeman, M.D." <rfree…@shaw.ca> wrote in message news:lbbPc.152224$od7.140640@pd7tw3no… > A correction: Haloperidol and pimozide (Orap) are *NOT* SSRIs
Oops, you are right, sorry about that. Nice to *see* you here Roger. Jodi
Response:
"Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message
news:newscache$zhbo1i$t5h$1@news.actcom.co.il… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I have 3 children ( 6,9,and 12 ). My 2 daughters ( 6 and 12 ) both have > tourettes syndrome. Me eldest has had it since age 4. > For many years, it remained mild, and I would say that she handled it > heroicly, and excelled in various areas ( acting, piano, etc but not > school). > Then, about a year ago, as she became more conscious, and the tics increased > in intensity, and she developed some embarssing tics, we decided to try > medication. We were shortly on Haldol, which really helped, but we kept > having to up the dose, until we reached 4kg. She was VERY tired! > We didn’t want to increase the dose any more for fear of the potentially > serious side effects. 3 weeks ago, we stopped Haldol, and started Orap. > As of today, the tics are the worse they have ever been. We are at 4mg a day > ( third day today ) , and there is absolutely no effect! The neurologist has > told us to stick with Orap for a week, and if there is no effect, go back to > Haldol. > All opinions up to this point are welcome! > As I prepare to go back to Haldol, I have read a few studies involving the > nicotine patch, which, when used together with Haldol, may allow one to > reduce the dosage of Haldol. > I figure if 12 year old kids who smoke can use it, then why can’t my > daughter. Maybe I can cut up the 21 mg patch in to 7 smaller patches, stick > one her, and see what happens. How much of a risk can I be taking? It’s an > over the counter medication. > If, as in the studies, it increases the effect of the Haldol, that would be > great. > Has anyone experimented with these patches? > There seems to be some promising studies, but it hasn’t really taken off. > Can anyone advise on any of the above? > Thanks > Ian
My son is now 13 dx at 8. A couple of years ago Mat wanted to try some meds to help control a very painful facial tic. He was put on Clonidine. His doc. told me he would never put a child on anything stronger than Clonidine for tics. Mat was on Clonidine for about a year. His motor tics just about completely disappeared. His vocal tics and coprolalia became an all time high. After a year of Clonidine, his doc said we needed to get him off because it’s not good with boys starting puberty, because of it’s affect on blood pressure. So Mat decided to go with no more drugs. The motor tics came back but nothing painful so far. We all accept the tics no matter what they are. He has one that makes him grab my butt. And he also has the one for grabbing his crotch. It’s just part of our daily living. — Joanne mom to Mat the Amazing!
Response:
>Subject: Nicotine Patches >From: "Ian" i…@actcom.co.il >Date: 7/30/04 10:34 AM Pacific Daylight Time >Message-id: <newscache$zhbo1i$t5…@news.actcom.co.il> >I have 3 children ( 6,9,and 12 ). My 2 daughters ( 6 and 12 ) both have >tourettes syndrome. Me eldest has had it since age 4. >For many years, it remained mild, and I would say that she handled it >heroicly, and excelled in various areas ( acting, piano, etc but not >school). >Then, about a year ago, as she became more conscious, and the tics increased >in intensity, and she developed some embarssing tics, we decided to try >medication.
It’s very common for tics to manifest with a vengence for the year or two right before puberty. However, tics often wan upon or shortly after puberty. Tics cease manifesting altogether in 25-50 % of children dx’d with TS (after puberty.) So, whatever you decide I hope you do so while keeping it in mind that the ticcing might ease up or cease altogether within the next year or two. Linda There’s a lone soldier on the cross, smoke pourin’ out of a boxcar door, You didn’t know it, you didn’t think it could be done, in the final end he won the wars After losin’ every battle. —Bob Dylan Idiot Wind
Response:
A correction: Haloperidol and pimozide (Orap) are *NOT* SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), etc. They are "neuroleptics." 4 mg of haloperidol is about equivalent to 8 mg of pimozide, so it may just be that the dosage is too low. Roger "Jodi" <hellofromj…@NOSPAMcharter.net> wrote in message
news:10glpgf6gj8dk8c@corp.supernews.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hi Ian, > Welcome to the group. I don’t know anything about the nicotine patches but > wanted to comment on the Haldol. Haldol was one of the first meds that came > out for TS, and IMO there are now alot better meds available to try before > you go for the "big guns". Clonidine and Tenex are pretty benign and are > usually tried first before going onto the SSRI’s. My son does well on > Tenex. Your daughter may need something stronger but it might make sense to > backtrack to clonidine or tenex to see if the safer drugs may work before > trying another ssri. Clonidine didn’t work as well for us and took along > time before he saw any benefit from it. YMMV and this is JMHO. > Are you going to a doctor who specializes in TS? > Take care, > Jodi > "Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message > news:newscache$zhbo1i$t5h$1@news.actcom.co.il… > > I have 3 children ( 6,9,and 12 ). My 2 daughters ( 6 and 12 ) both have > > tourettes syndrome. Me eldest has had it since age 4. > > For many years, it remained mild, and I would say that she handled it > > heroicly, and excelled in various areas ( acting, piano, etc but not > > school). > > Then, about a year ago, as she became more conscious, and the tics > increased > > in intensity, and she developed some embarssing tics, we decided to try > > medication. We were shortly on Haldol, which really helped, but we kept > > having to up the dose, until we reached 4kg. She was VERY tired! > > We didn’t want to increase the dose any more for fear of the potentially > > serious side effects. 3 weeks ago, we stopped Haldol, and started Orap. > > As of today, the tics are the worse they have ever been. We are at 4mg a > day > > ( third day today ) , and there is absolutely no effect! The neurologist > has > > told us to stick with Orap for a week, and if there is no effect, go back > to > > Haldol. > > All opinions up to this point are welcome! > > As I prepare to go back to Haldol, I have read a few studies involving the > > nicotine patch, which, when used together with Haldol, may allow one to > > reduce the dosage of Haldol. > > I figure if 12 year old kids who smoke can use it, then why can’t my > > daughter. Maybe I can cut up the 21 mg patch in to 7 smaller patches, > stick > > one her, and see what happens. How much of a risk can I be taking? It’s an > > over the counter medication. > > If, as in the studies, it increases the effect of the Haldol, that would > be > > great. > > Has anyone experimented with these patches? > > There seems to be some promising studies, but it hasn’t really taken off. > > Can anyone advise on any of the above? > > Thanks > > Ian
Response:
I have 3 children ( 6,9,and 12 ). My 2 daughters ( 6 and 12 ) both have tourettes syndrome. Me eldest has had it since age 4. For many years, it remained mild, and I would say that she handled it heroicly, and excelled in various areas ( acting, piano, etc but not school). Then, about a year ago, as she became more conscious, and the tics increased in intensity, and she developed some embarssing tics, we decided to try medication. We were shortly on Haldol, which really helped, but we kept having to up the dose, until we reached 4kg. She was VERY tired! We didn’t want to increase the dose any more for fear of the potentially serious side effects. 3 weeks ago, we stopped Haldol, and started Orap. As of today, the tics are the worse they have ever been. We are at 4mg a day ( third day today ) , and there is absolutely no effect! The neurologist has told us to stick with Orap for a week, and if there is no effect, go back to Haldol. All opinions up to this point are welcome! As I prepare to go back to Haldol, I have read a few studies involving the nicotine patch, which, when used together with Haldol, may allow one to reduce the dosage of Haldol. I figure if 12 year old kids who smoke can use it, then why can’t my daughter. Maybe I can cut up the 21 mg patch in to 7 smaller patches, stick one her, and see what happens. How much of a risk can I be taking? It’s an over the counter medication. If, as in the studies, it increases the effect of the Haldol, that would be great. Has anyone experimented with these patches? There seems to be some promising studies, but it hasn’t really taken off. Can anyone advise on any of the above? Thanks Ian
Response:
Hi Ian, Welcome to the group. I don’t know anything about the nicotine patches but wanted to comment on the Haldol. Haldol was one of the first meds that came out for TS, and IMO there are now alot better meds available to try before you go for the "big guns". Clonidine and Tenex are pretty benign and are usually tried first before going onto the SSRI’s. My son does well on Tenex. Your daughter may need something stronger but it might make sense to backtrack to clonidine or tenex to see if the safer drugs may work before trying another ssri. Clonidine didn’t work as well for us and took along time before he saw any benefit from it. YMMV and this is JMHO. Are you going to a doctor who specializes in TS? Take care, Jodi "Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message
news:newscache$zhbo1i$t5h$1@news.actcom.co.il… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I have 3 children ( 6,9,and 12 ). My 2 daughters ( 6 and 12 ) both have > tourettes syndrome. Me eldest has had it since age 4. > For many years, it remained mild, and I would say that she handled it > heroicly, and excelled in various areas ( acting, piano, etc but not > school). > Then, about a year ago, as she became more conscious, and the tics increased > in intensity, and she developed some embarssing tics, we decided to try > medication. We were shortly on Haldol, which really helped, but we kept > having to up the dose, until we reached 4kg. She was VERY tired! > We didn’t want to increase the dose any more for fear of the potentially > serious side effects. 3 weeks ago, we stopped Haldol, and started Orap. > As of today, the tics are the worse they have ever been. We are at 4mg a day > ( third day today ) , and there is absolutely no effect! The neurologist has > told us to stick with Orap for a week, and if there is no effect, go back to > Haldol. > All opinions up to this point are welcome! > As I prepare to go back to Haldol, I have read a few studies involving the > nicotine patch, which, when used together with Haldol, may allow one to > reduce the dosage of Haldol. > I figure if 12 year old kids who smoke can use it, then why can’t my > daughter. Maybe I can cut up the 21 mg patch in to 7 smaller patches, stick > one her, and see what happens. How much of a risk can I be taking? It’s an > over the counter medication. > If, as in the studies, it increases the effect of the Haldol, that would be > great. > Has anyone experimented with these patches? > There seems to be some promising studies, but it hasn’t really taken off. > Can anyone advise on any of the above? > Thanks > Ian
Response:
>From: "Jodi" hellofromj…@NOSPAMcharter.n >, and IMO there are now alot better meds available to try before >you go for the "big guns". Clonidine and Tenex are pretty benign and are >usually tried first >Are you going to a doctor who specializes in TS? >Take care, >Jodi
Hi Ian. Welcome. Again, Jodi, good advice. My son is also on a Clonodine type of med. He has been on that for over ten years very on and off. Several years on, then several off, now back on for a short time. Jan
Response:
"Jan" <greenspa…@aol.com> wrote in message
news:20040730212604.19394.00002687@mb-m04.aol.com… >Again, Jodi, good advice.
Great minds think alike lol. Jodi
Response:
Thanks for the reply. Yes, I am going to a neurologist who supposedely knows what he is doing. He clearly doesn’t! The Internet makes it very clear that other meds should have been tried first. How do I back track now? Re: the medication. She was on 4 mg Haldol, and came off it abruptly almost a month ago. She is building up on Orap ( now 4 mg – today is the 4th day at this level) with absolutely no effect. Her tics are terrible – especially the main one in which she contorts her whole body, makes a grunting sound, and grabs her crotch. This is no easy tic for a 12 year old girl! and her new high school starts in one month. I have to get this under control by then! So, if I give up on the Orap 3-4 days from now, what next? 1. Go back to Haldol …….The main reason I would want to do this now, is to give her some relief from this unpleasant incesase in the tics after leaving the Haldol. ( which she took for a year, leading up to a 4mg daily dose )…..perhaps start at 3mg. The main goal would be to give her a break from the worst tic. ( The addition of the nicotine patch doesn’t seem to have got much support, although it seems fairly safe to try..a 7kg patch for a week perhaps.) 2. Go back to the not so stong meds – such as Clonidine ot Tenex , and give them a second chance. If I do this, do I have to slowly go off the Orap ( she’s only taken a total of 33mg in almost a month)??., or can I just start them. I don’t want to wait weeks building up the does. I need results ASAP. 3.Stopping all meds doesn’t seem a fair option given the severity of the tics. Other options – I need a shrink ( for myself ) ! or meds! thanks Ian "Jodi" <hellofromj…@NOSPAMcharter.net> wrote in message
news:10glpgf6gj8dk8c@corp.supernews.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hi Ian, > Welcome to the group. I don’t know anything about the nicotine patches but > wanted to comment on the Haldol. Haldol was one of the first meds that came > out for TS, and IMO there are now alot better meds available to try before > you go for the "big guns". Clonidine and Tenex are pretty benign and are > usually tried first before going onto the SSRI’s. My son does well on > Tenex. Your daughter may need something stronger but it might make sense to > backtrack to clonidine or tenex to see if the safer drugs may work before > trying another ssri. Clonidine didn’t work as well for us and took along > time before he saw any benefit from it. YMMV and this is JMHO. > Are you going to a doctor who specializes in TS? > Take care, > Jodi > "Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message > news:newscache$zhbo1i$t5h$1@news.actcom.co.il… > > I have 3 children ( 6,9,and 12 ). My 2 daughters ( 6 and 12 ) both have > > tourettes syndrome. Me eldest has had it since age 4. > > For many years, it remained mild, and I would say that she handled it > > heroicly, and excelled in various areas ( acting, piano, etc but not > > school). > > Then, about a year ago, as she became more conscious, and the tics > increased > > in intensity, and she developed some embarssing tics, we decided to try > > medication. We were shortly on Haldol, which really helped, but we kept > > having to up the dose, until we reached 4kg. She was VERY tired! > > We didn’t want to increase the dose any more for fear of the potentially > > serious side effects. 3 weeks ago, we stopped Haldol, and started Orap. > > As of today, the tics are the worse they have ever been. We are at 4mg a > day > > ( third day today ) , and there is absolutely no effect! The neurologist > has > > told us to stick with Orap for a week, and if there is no effect, go back > to > > Haldol. > > All opinions up to this point are welcome! > > As I prepare to go back to Haldol, I have read a few studies involving the > > nicotine patch, which, when used together with Haldol, may allow one to > > reduce the dosage of Haldol. > > I figure if 12 year old kids who smoke can use it, then why can’t my > > daughter. Maybe I can cut up the 21 mg patch in to 7 smaller patches, > stick > > one her, and see what happens. How much of a risk can I be taking? It’s an > > over the counter medication. > > If, as in the studies, it increases the effect of the Haldol, that would > be > > great. > > Has anyone experimented with these patches? > > There seems to be some promising studies, but it hasn’t really taken off. > > Can anyone advise on any of the above? > > Thanks > > Ian
Response:
"Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message
news:newscache$59ip1i$z7i$1@news.actcom.co.il… > 2. Go back to the not so stong meds – such as Clonidine ot Tenex , and give > them a second chance.
So she has tried these before? If they did nothing then, and you gave them enough time to work, then they probably won’t do anything now. >If I do this, do I have to slowly go off the Orap ( > she’s only taken a total of 33mg in almost a month)??., or can I just start > them.
You need to consult your neuro. You probably have to taper off the Orap, but i have no experience with it and do not know. > Other options – I need a shrink ( for myself ) ! or meds!
lol Sorry i’m not much help. tc, jodi – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> thanks > Ian
Response:
Ian wrote: > 2. Go back to the not so stong meds – such as Clonidine ot Tenex , and > give them a second chance. If I do this, do I have to slowly go off the > Orap ( she’s only taken a total of 33mg in almost a month)??., or can I > just start them. I don’t want to wait weeks building up the does. I need > results ASAP.
FWIW, I found that Clonidine was one of the few meds that did anything at all for ADD symptoms without making tics worse. If an ADHD diagnosis is part of the problems your kids are dealing with, it might be worth keeping the Clonidine even if some other medication is ultimately used to treat the tics. — MYTHOLOGY, n. The body of a primitive people’s beliefs concerning its origin, early history, heroes, deities and so forth, as distinguished from the true accounts which it invents later. -Ambrose Bierce, The Devil’s Dictionary.
Response:
If they did nothing then, and you gave them enough time to work, then they probably won’t do anything now They did nothing then, BUT I don’t believe I gave them anough time! thanks Ian "Jodi" <hellofromj…@NOSPAMcharter.net> wrote in message
news:10gnf1ccjic3ge8@corp.supernews.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> "Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message > news:newscache$59ip1i$z7i$1@news.actcom.co.il… > > 2. Go back to the not so stong meds – such as Clonidine ot Tenex , and > give > > them a second chance. > So she has tried these before? If they did nothing then, and you gave them > enough time to work, then they probably won’t do anything now. > >If I do this, do I have to slowly go off the Orap ( > > she’s only taken a total of 33mg in almost a month)??., or can I just > start > > them. > You need to consult your neuro. You probably have to taper off the Orap, > but i have no experience with it and do not know. > > Other options – I need a shrink ( for myself ) ! or meds! > lol > Sorry i’m not much help. > tc, > jodi > > thanks > > Ian
Response:
"Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message
news:newscache$z81r1i$f49$1@news.actcom.co.il… > They did nothing then, BUT I don’t believe I gave them anough time!
YMMV, but when my son was on clonidine it took months and happened so slowly that i didn’t realize it had work at all until i took him off it to try another med and realized how much more he was ticcing. Tenex took a couple weeks til i could start seeing a difference. Jodi – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> thanks > Ian > "Jodi" <hellofromj…@NOSPAMcharter.net> wrote in message > news:10gnf1ccjic3ge8@corp.supernews.com… > > "Ian" <i…@actcom.co.il> wrote in message > > news:newscache$59ip1i$z7i$1@news.actcom.co.il… > > > 2. Go back to the not so stong meds – such as Clonidine ot Tenex , and > > give > > > them a second chance. > > So she has tried these before? If they did nothing then, and you gave them > > enough time to work, then they probably won’t do anything now. > > >If I do this, do I have to slowly go off the Orap ( > > > she’s only taken a total of 33mg in almost a month)??., or can I just > > start > > > them. > > You need to consult your neuro. You probably have to taper off the Orap, > > but i have no experience with it and do not know. > > > Other options – I need a shrink ( for myself ) ! or meds! > > lol > > Sorry i’m not much help. > > tc, > > jodi > > > thanks > > > Ian
Response:
Previous page