Hey everyone,

I'm 20 years old, currently attending university, and I got a perscription to Ritalin a few weeks back, and I have another appointment I just made for Monday to try and see if I can try out adderall. I'm not ADHD, but ADD. Concentration is a huge factor for me. Staying on task, forgetting things, absentmindedness, have all been problems with me. This has also definitely affected my social life, and I have no doubt taking adderall will make me "normal".

My question is, will a Doc ever perscribe adderall for use "as needed", or does everyone pretty much take it daily? I was thinking maybe I can use it "as needed" whenever I need to buckle down and study for school, which doesn't necessarily have to be every day.

Also another question, is it a fact that everyone who starts on a low dosage of adderall will adapt to it and over time will need a large dosage to get the same effect? Because I don't want to start taking 10mg or so everyday, and sooner or later end up taking some ridiculous amount every day.

Thanks guys!!

How you take your Adderall will be a determination between you and your doctor.

I can tell that Adderall isn't one of the medications like antidepressants which have to be taken every day for weeks to reach an effectiveness.

I have read of some who do take their ADD medication on an as needed basis only however I must reiterate that this decision should be made by a health care professional based upon your individual needs.

I have been on the same dose of Adderall for over five years. Although I no longer "feel" it is still effective in helping me deal with my ADHD symptoms.

If you are having problems functioning why would you only take medication as needed? You said you are forgetful, absentminded and have social life issues, etc. When would you decide to take your medicine, at night socialising with friends??? studying??? I'm confused.:confused: If you have adhd it should be affecting you more than just 2 or 3 hours a day. If you are truely suffering in so many areas of your life, wouldn't it be more logical to take medication daily on a structured regimen, i.e ritalin 3 X daily, adderall 2 X daily, strattera, etc. Are side effects a problem with ritalin? Just wondering, like to hear from you.:)