I recently switched medications about a week ago; I moved from the instant-release (IR) Adderall to the extended-release (XR) version. Also, my dosage was increased by 5mg when I made the switch. Anyhow, since I began taking Adderall XR at 30mg, I was shocked by how different the XR made me feel compared to the IR version. With the XR version, I felt less irritable, more friendly, and had more mental clarity. Even though I was happy about these side effects, I was also VERY disappointed about the other effects I was experiencing. I felt as if I were on a horribly intense rollercoaster. It seemed that my mood would go from being generally happy to being miserably depressed. I am currently on an anti-depressant and even that can't alleviate the depressing thoughts I think. I can honestly say I've never been this depressed before. I do not doubt that it has helped my motivation and focus, but the side effects are becoming unbearable for me.

At the moment, I am seriously considering stopping the Adderall altogether, but unfortunately do not know what "plan B" is. I've looked into just about every drug out there, but because there are such a large number of medications, I feel overwhelmed and confused about what to do. I am looking for a medication which doesn't make your overall mood change in the blink of an eye. I am looking for something which is generally stable and mild in negative side effects, but at the same time, provides the clarity I need on a day-to-day basis. I hate saying this, but at this point I'm essentially desperate for some guidance on what to do. Any advice is GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks for listening.

Hmm not sure sounds like some rapid cycling manic depression like effects on
the XR drug. If that is the case a mood stabilizer added to the mix might help.

I am taking Vyvanse and have experienced similar depressing thoughts with my medication...as well as irritabiltiy and all together being on a rollercoaster. I never know what side of me is going to come out in a day. My pdoc put me on 250mg of depakote er on top of the vyvanse.Hmm not sure sounds like some rapid cycling manic depression like effects on
the XR drug. If that is the case a mood stabilizer added to the mix might help.