10mg XR doesn't hold me

[Joanna197]

I'm 44 and i finally got my test results. I have inattentive adhd/hyperactivity and my dr. Started me on 10mg xr adderall and it seems to work but only for a few hours. I think i need a booster like adderall IR. What should i do? I am not sure how to approach her. Help?

[Emmie1]

Just be honest. You know your body better than anyone. It is not dramatic to ask for a minimal increase in dosage. It provides your physician with a baseline. Hopefully she is empathetic to your situation. Having been a former clinician who worked with board certified psychiatrists, I believe they know how to weed out med seeking patients from individuals who need this medication to function. I would prepare a list of time you take rx, how you feel when dose is proper, and what you are experiencing at current. It is truly a shame that people who really need meds have to jump through hoops, while others can’t seen to get a break. Thank you for sharing your experience and hope will be

[Evergreen3]

Hi Joanna197, keep track of what time you take the medicine and when you think it stops working. Providing time lines and specifics to the physician helps. Also, keep in mind if your ADHD is worse before, during, or after your cycle. Hormones play a role in ADHD symptoms.

[Maker61 in reply to Evergreen3]

Excellent guidance. As challenging as it is when we lack patience, this is not an exact science (i.e., blood test doesn’t result in a meds formula). It takes lots of time, adjustments, trial and error. The info Evergreen3 suggests you collect should be very helpful to your dr in deciding what you need - or at least what to try next.

[BatWoman87]

Hi Joanna,

Your doctor should not have prescribed you the medication without setting a follow up date or at least indicating in how many weeks she/he would like to see you to evaluate and discuss. Only when you are both comfortable with a dose that you have taken and evaluated together, will you not need a follow up appointment.

You may have to ask for it, but you deserve good medication management!!!!