Concerta prescribing questions - ADD / ADHD Message Board

mason1828 · 06-17-2004, 08:23 AM

My doc started me on 18 mg Concerta with no refills. Had no effect and based on this board, I upped to 36 mg and I think I noticed something.

A few questions.

1. Frequently I forget to take them in the morning -- does that have effect beyond that day? Or is it a pure stimulant that doesn't linger in my bloodstream, etc.? I.e., effect on day 20 is that same as day 1.

2. Will I have to go back to the doctor every time I need a refill -- every month? The doctor said it was a controlled substance (when I asked about refills initially) -- does that mean no refills without doctor call or visit? What's the easiest way to get a steady supply of the drug? (which by the way my insurance does pay for)

Happy Again · 06-17-2004, 08:30 AM

These stimulants are controlled substances. You have to get actual written prescriptions from your doctor each month. They cannot give refills or call in prescriptions to a pharmacy by law. Our doctor does not require an appointment each month. I call in and pick up the written prescriptions from the receptionist. We have follow up visits for my son every 3 months or so. I would imagine it would be less frequent for an adult, but I don't know for sure.

ManiKGurLy · 06-17-2004, 08:47 AM

I have been on Concerta for about 3 months. I started on 18mg and now I am on 27mg. It definitely has affected me from the very beginning. I have stable off a little bit and am feeling great with not many side effects. The only major one is the EXTRA zip of energy., which I can't really complain about.

Concerta is a "time released ritalin". Taken in the morning and getting used to it you'll feel tired toward evening. My doctor suggested a small dose of ritalin in the evening to get through the night. Just watch your doses and work with you doctor on what is best for you.

There's really no such thing as a "steady supply of the drug". It's a prescription prescibed every month and controlled by the doctor.

WILDDCHILDD75 · 06-19-2004, 09:43 AM

some dr. will give you a few scripts at a time. if going to the office every month is a problem ask him if he can give you more than 1 script. keep in mind after a change in your dose you will may have to follow up so they can make sure the dose is not to much. and like the others said it is a (c2) class 2 drug. also you should talk to your dr. about skipping doses, some poeple don't take it on the weekends and some need it everyday. and never just stop taking your meds some of the meds used to treat this disorder can cause major problems if you just stop them. good luck and becareful...