View Full Version : Recent AD/HD diagnosis


Talbot
01-23-07, 02:55 AM
Hello everyone!

I've been lurking for a bit, but thought I'd take the plunge and post for my first time.

I've was originally diagnosed with panic disorder about 2 years ago. My meds generally consisted, of course, of anti-anxiety drugs. After several months of trial and error, my doctor and i came to the conclusion that Klonopin was my hero. I've been anxiety-free (for the most part) for some time now.

Now comes the biggest surprise of my life. I complained to my doctor of my inability to focus, no clarity of thought, not being able to follow conversations or even feign interest in them. She asked how long this has been going on, so I told her the truth.....since I was about 8 or 9 years old. I thought of myself as your classsic under-achiever, unless it was a subject I was interested in, such as biology or parisitology.

The doctor decided to test me for Bipolar and/or ADD. Sure enough, after 3 or 4 tests, I was diagnosed with AD/HD innatentive type.

Started Strattera about 2 weeks ago, 18 mg qd for 1 week, then up to 25mg qd. Focus improved somewhat, but side effects (trouble going pee pee) has ended that trial. I'm due to see her this Friday and I suspect she will try me out on a stimulant since she didn't offer to call in anything like provigil or wellbutrin.

I know this can very greatly from doctor to doctor, but what should I expect for a starting medication? I'm assuming Adderall XR or Concerta, as these seem the popular meds at this time. I'm 6'1", 250lbs. What would be a starting dose of either of these medications? From what I've read, weight doesn't play as big of a part in dosage as your metabolizing power, of which i am of the rapid metabolizer variety. Also, how might this this affect my anxiety? I seemed to be quite activated (but not anxious) on the Strattera even with my daily dose of Klonopin (1mg bid). My guess is this is going to be a lot of trial and error in effectively controlling both the ADD and anxiety.

Thanks to all of you who participate on this forum.....My knowledge of this disorder has increased immensely due to your input.

--Talbot

JR1973
01-23-07, 11:13 PM
Welcome aboard! Well you've mentioned probably the most popular meds for this condition since they are the longest acting. Both may work well for you so it's kinda a trial and error sorta thing. Usually for Adderall XR the starting dose is 20mg and Concerta would be 36mg but every doc is different.
A recent website I've discovered really has given me a lot more info about this condition and the meds.
http://www.askdrjones.com/category/adhd/

Check it out if you want. Very informative and easy to read.

J

EYEFORGOT
01-24-07, 12:05 AM
Welcome to the Forums, Talbot. :)

I've been on straterra for a while now. I'm actually experimenting trying to determined with my psych if it's still doing what I need it to do or if there's something else I need to go to. She is hesitant to put me on a stimulant because of my anxiety. So that may be something to ask if you haven't already.

Moderators and Administrators are here if you need a hand with anything. Glad you're not lurking anymore. :)