does medication for add help with addiction problems? - ADD / ADHD Message Board

Jodi · 01-16-2001, 08:44 AM

My husband has just been labeled add. He has not started taking medication yet, nor do we know what kind he will be taking. Our relationship has been up and down not only because of add symptoms but also because he cant control his addiction problems. He is not constantly abusing something, its just every once in awhile, but he cant control it when it hits. And it is everything form porn to drugs. He says he doesnt know why he does it it just overcomes him. Has anyone else had these kind of problems and does add medication help control them? Please help me! I'm confused and I dont know what to do.

alazay · 01-16-2001, 09:54 AM

A lot of medication prescribed for ADD is addicting itself! So it would not help an addiction problem. I think maybe he should seek therapy.

agteach · 01-16-2001, 12:23 PM

Josi, maybe this addiction is sparked by his ADD. He may be using drugs to self medicate himeslf. He needs to on his meds right away, you both need to be in therapy. I wouldn't worry about the porn, maybe it is a way top relieve excess energy. It will work, remember you can call me anytime. But no really don't think the meds will kick the drug addication but maybe he will realize with the meds he doesn't need the drugs

FaultyLogic · 01-18-2001, 10:51 AM

All the therapy in the world won't cure ADHD, it's caused by an abnormality within the structure of the brain.

A person with ADHD who does NOT take prescribed medication is more likely to abuse other substances than one whose symptoms are being controlled with medication. Studies prove that teenagers presecribed Ritalin for ADHD are LESS likely to experiment with other drugs (marijuana, etc) than teenagers with untreated ADHD. Your husband's addiction problems probably stem from his body's attempt to self-regulate/medicate for symptom relief.

Lou Ann · 01-24-2001, 05:39 AM

Medication for ADD will help to control impulsiveness in your husband and make it easier for him to reason with himself. This may help with the addition problems. Therapy is also very necessary for both of you. Good luck, you can do this!
Lou Ann