View Full Version : Adderall Dosing...


subrosa
01-29-09, 05:01 PM
**I posted a similiar post in the Adult w/ ADD area. I just really want imput. I'm sorry!

How long does it take to know if the med is working to it's full potential or if the dose needs to be upped.

I was diagnosed w/ ADD in a round about way by my Psychiatrist (who I've only been seeing for a little over 3 months). I originally went to him believing I had Postpartum Anxiety. The symptoms were what I've felt my entire life but got worse about 10 months after my pregnancy.

I never went to college & led a carefree, reckless, life up until now (marriage & baby). I am a 31 y/o Female. On a good day I'd assume everyone felt like I do, but had better coping mechanisms. On a bad day I just resign myself to not being as smart at managing life.

I was prescribed 10mg Adderall IR twice a day. I was skeptical of the diagnosis & meds & didn't ask any questions when he gave me the script, basically I'd decided it wasn't going to work before I'd even tried it, especially b/c I'm already anxious, I couldn't possibly comprehend how a stimulant could help me concentrate on living in the moment.

I took my first pill at my husbands request (4 days ago) the same day as my appointment, & w/in an hour things got quieter, things were hectic but not as loud in my head. And, that PM I had the best night sleep of my life! This has continued since Monday, it hasn't gotten quieter, but a consistant hush, like I'm on the cusp. I didn't know people felt like this! No speedy feeling at all, just thirsty. I was so excited I called the Dr's office & left a message to speak to him. My original plan was to ask him if I could up my dose to 20mg 2 times a day. He wasn't in the office & will be calling me back tomorrow.

I'm worried now, though that I haven't given the med enough time to work & I don't want to come across as a drug seeker when I speak to him. I was just so happy things were a little less foggy & things weren't moving at warp speed in my head. How long does it usually take for a mg dose of Adderall to reach it's potential? Am I being impatient & rude?

nurse708
01-29-09, 05:10 PM
From what I have seen most other people on here with lots more experience recommend, it is best to stay on the smallest dose that works. I don't think that 4-5 days is long enough to start wanting to increase. Sounds like it is working pretty well at the dose you are on now.

subrosa
01-29-09, 05:19 PM
Thank you for the reply. I'm impatient by nature & acted impulsively when I called my Dr this AM, just so amazed this could happen. Is there a set time frame? Like, SSRI's?

nurse708
01-29-09, 05:26 PM
I think that it pretty much varies for each person. There are a lot people with really great advice on this board. Do a search....you will find lots of good advice.