I have been taking Lexapro (30mg 1x per day; a high dose) for OCD for aprox. two years now. Unfortunately, I suffer from the SSRI induced "amotivational syndrome" that strikes some long-term users of SSRI antidepressants. Basically, boosting serotonin in the brain long-term leads to dopamine dampening in the frontal cortex. SSRI medications work great for OCD but sometimes their "anticompulsive/antiobsessive" effects zone you out with regards to important things in your life such as work, sex, school, etc. The result of SSRI induced dopamine dampening is sexual side effects, lack of concentration, and lack of motivation.

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My Pdoc suggested Adderall as a way to conteract my lack of motivation, sexual side effects, and poor concentration caused by the Lexapro. The Lexapro works great for my OCD; however, it spaces me out so I have a difficult time concentrating and focusing at work.

My doctor added 10mg of Adderall IR 2x per day. This has helped my motivation tremendously; however, my concentration hasn't been helped much. My Pdoc thinks I will need a higher dose of Adderall to help with concentration. I'm not going to lie, I love the increased motivation from the Adderall! Does this effect last?

Is 10mg of Adderall IR 2x per day considered a low dose?

I am worried, Will I become addicted to Adderall or develop a tolerance?

I have been taking medication vacations (only with the Adderall) on the weekends so I don't develop a tolerance. Is this an effective strategy?

I just don't want to develop a tolerance and have to keep upping my dose of Adderall to high levels!

Any comments??

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MinnesotaNole,

If your Lexapro attention deficit problems respond similarly to Adderall as ADHD, then, yes, a higher dose MAY help.

How bad is your OCD? If you can handle it for a few weeks to a month or so, talk to your pdoc about TEMPORARILY coming off the Lex to give your brain a chance to recover.

You may not need Adderall once you resume the Lex since your dopamine levels will be normalized.

Bob