I finally got meds (conserta 18mg) from my primary MD and read the paper from the drug store and now I do not want to take it!

I have mild hyper tension (my Dr knows this) and I have a family history of ticks and torettes. (not sure what the issue is with that)

Plus I hate the idea of being addicted to a drug is hard to get off.

I like my Zoloft and do not want to take lots of meds. The Dr. says that I may be able to get off the Zoloft IF the Concerta works well. I can not imagine this).

Anyway, I have had it all week and I am very scared to take it even though I have wanted ADHD meds for 10-15 years!
:(

Some suggestions:
For the hypertension, get a blood pressure instrument for home use (if you haven't already). Then you can monitor your blood pressure on and off meds and see if you are affected.

Try the med on a day you are not working so that you can see the effects (if any) without the added issues at work.

Tics may be made worse by stim meds. Studies have shown this is not the case, but individuals vary.

These meds taken at prescription doses are not addictive. In fact the proper use of these meds can reduce the self medicating that can lead to substance abuse.

Everyone is different and you need to work with your doctor to taylor your overall treatment to your individual needs.

My 10yo daughter is on 27mg concerta and has become more successful in school and her anxiety and depression are gone.

Hope this helps.

good to hear

thanks

It sound strange but I used to have frequent panic attacks and anxiety; after taking Concerta, I haven't had one since (it's been two months or so). My heart used to race and my palms would sweat when I was about to drive, I would hyperventilate and couldn't function. My doctor then said it could be an effect of ADHD, I thought he was nuts but I guess it was.

Though I'm not getting off of Paxil quite yet, I heard that's really hard to come off of, so I'm giving it a while.

Regarding ticks, I don't have a family history of such, but I noticed on one day I had them but VERY briefly, and it's never happened before, or again. Please come back and give me an update, I want to hear what it does for you.

It sound strange but I used to have frequent panic attacks and anxiety; after taking Concerta, I haven't had one since (it's been two months or so). My heart used to race and my palms would sweat when I was about to drive, I would hyperventilate and couldn't function. My doctor then said it could be an effect of ADHD, I thought he was nuts but I guess it was.

Though I'm not getting off of Paxil quite yet, I heard that's really hard to come off of, so I'm giving it a while.

Regarding ticks, I don't have a family history of such, but I noticed on one day I had them but VERY briefly, and it's never happened before, or again. Please come back and give me an update, I want to hear what it does for you.
I too experienced what I would explain as panic attacks when I first started taking Concerta, as someone who has never had a panic attack in their life, it was alarming. My feeling was of almost constant worry about the weirdest things. But it went away after about 2 weeks after starting the pills.

Hmmm, its been 4 days and so far I am not sure what to think. I have had a mild headache for all 4 days though. My blood pressure checks out OK though. I feel about the same, maybe a little more alert, more talkative (not good for me) perhaps nervous or more obsesive. Not sure though, very mild so far I guess. Its just 18mg.

See if the headache goes away as your body gets used to the med. Then it may be time to titer up if you and your doctor wish to do so.

"Titer up" what does that mean?

I think Vickie meant to say "titrate up", as in raise your dose.

"Titer up" what does that mean? You know, "titer up" with ropes! LOL :D

Nice to see you again Foot-in-mouth! :)

I think Vickie meant to say "titrate up", as in raise your dose. Yep

Not familiar with the term but thanks!

Titrate up is increasing until you get to the optimal dose.