New to ADD meds but need to switch

[ScarlettO18]

I was diagnosed in April with ADD. I have always struggled with school but had been able to compensate until reaching the doctoral level. After almost quitting my program I decided to get evaluated. I started taking the generic Concerta in April and It has really made a difference and enabled me to make progress with my dissertation.

My PhD funding ran out at the beginning of this academic year so we are having to pay $3,500 a term for my advisers to review my dissertation process. Which seems abusive but is the only way to remain in the program. The plan is to be done this year. In the meantime this means that money is very tight especially since I am only working 10 hours a week to focus on writing.

Unfortunately, our insurance does not cover the generic Concerta 36mg METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE so it costs $209 a month since we have a very high deductible.

I have done some research and I am considering asking my doctor to switch me to dextroamph / amphetamine ER the generic Adderall XR which would cost $60 a month. Both medications have similar profiles and work very similarly albeit can work better for some individuals. I would like to try switching over to the generic Aderall XR once I am out of the current prescription. But would love your insight and/or suggestions.

I have been taking Lexapro 10 mg for a year which has not helped a ton and killed my sex drive, but I am weary to change this since I have to finish the dissertation by March so have no time to adjust or come back from a bad switch.

[Rocksmack]

Is your doctor aware of your financial issues? If not, let him know. He may have some sample packs he can give/prescribe. He may have coupons, discount card, or vouchers that will allow you to get certain meds at reduced rates. I had no insurance a few years ago so doctors and meds were expensive. My doc barely charged me for the office visit. He also gave me a coupon for a non generic med which dropped the price from $150 to $10.

The doctors may not have discount vouchers for all of the meds. They usually have them for newer meds, name brand stuff, and what the doctors pharmaceutical rep gives him to push sales.

Lastly, go to the website of the medications you want or that work for you. Some manufacturers have a section on their website where people with out insurance or who cant afford to buy the medicine can apply for reduced price or free meds. You may find, that the manufacturer of your current med offers discounts on their site, which would be great for you.

About your Lexapro issues. I was taking paxil then Prozac, both killed my sex drive, sex functioning..trouble getting and maintaining an erection and difficulty reaching orgasm. both made me tired, constant fatigue, and they barely felt like they were working. both made me feel like they were just strong enough to take a little edge off but I always felt like something was going to set me off. I got tired of that feeling and lack of function, so I did some research and found Effexor and Pristiq. My insurance didn't want to pay for pristiq which is newer so I am now on Effexor. I am not as tired, I don't feel on edge, and have regained sexual function. Another benefit Effexor begins two work in about a week or two with full benefit in 4 weeks, I think I don't remember the exact number of days I just know it took a lot less time to work than paxil or Prozac.

just in case you want to switch from Lexapro. Effexor or pristiq might kick in fast enough for you so you don't have any issues if you decided to switch before you finish your dissertation. My doc weened me off of Prozac as I increased the Effexor. I had a smooth transition, no side effects or withdraw from the Prozac.

Good luck on your dissertation and with your new meds....

[ScarlettO18 in reply to Rocksmack]

Thanks!!! Will look into the Effexor and Pristiq options. Exciting to hear that transitioning was smooth.

[Angielc]

I experienced terrible head pain taking adderall n lexapro. Both low dose at 10 mg. Good Rx has great discounts if you can use it. Xr is more expensive I think and Ir works better for me, causing less anxiety overall. More controllable than taking the adderall xr. Start small!!

[ScarlettO18 in reply to Angielc]

Thanks! The slow release Conserta worked well which is why I am thinking of trying the XR. But will keep an eye out for headaches as I suffer from migraines.