I just started meds for the first time (Focalin XR). I’m on day 2 and it has been great so far as while I am on them I can actually choose what I want to focus on.
It is a total game changer - stressed about stuff that I have to do in 3 days and feeling like I’m going to spiral out of control into a pit of anxiety and misery? Nope, I’ll just focus on what I’m doing today and know that I can take care of that when it is time to do so. I was even able to go to multiple stores and places that would normally overstimulate me and stress me out without any issues.
The first downside I have noticed happened today - when I get hungry I get REALLY hungry and really irritated - extreme hangry. I had read that stimulants normally suppress appetite but that when you come off of them the appetite catches up and you can get really hungry. Apparently that happens to me so I’m going to have to be careful about that and maybe make sure I have a meal planned around the time that they will wear off.
Anybody else have that experience? Or any other interesting experiences about being on meds?
I’ve been on meds for about 6 months now and definitely noticed the same thing with Ritalin. My moods were very up and down all the time, especially in the afternoons. I tried adjusting the amounts I was taking, and even having smaller amounts, but more often (same total dosage). In the end I changed to Concerta, as it’s a slow release tablet that you take in the morning and forget about it. I think it works much better. It might be worth asking your doc
I will definitely mention that if I continue to have this issue or have other issues. I have a follow up in about a month. The Focalin XR is supposed to be extended release too - for me it seems to last around 8 hours or so which is about what I want because the main concern I have is with work. Outside of work I can structure my life to be pretty ADHD friendly
