Hi - I am 25 years old and just started taking Straterra. Today is my second day. I was diagnosed with ADD two weeks ago. (this was very sad that it took 25 years to find out that there was something wrong with me) My doctor started me on 200MG of Provigil. I felt absolutely no difference. So my doctor gave me Straterra 40mg in addition to the proivil. The one thing I can tell is that I am really sleepy. I am hoping this will pass. People at work keep asking if I am ok b/c I am very mellow – something I am usually not. I don’t know if I am focusing any better b/c my mind is set on trying to find out as much information on Straterra as possible. I was wondering if anyone can tell me what to expect – I have read a lot of different sites but they mostly talk about kids. Also if anyone has any advice they can give me on dealing with ADD as an adult.
I guess i am just really scared and i want something that is going to work - my whole life has been a mess and i am tired of it falling apart.

I don't know a thing about Provigil, but I'm adult that's been on Straterra about a month. The starting dose is 40 mg., which will likely be increased to 80 mg. My son has been on Straterra about 6 weeks. We both had sleepiness as a side effect but it went away after the first couple days. Once you get to your target dose it will be another three to four weeks before you know how well Straterra will work for you. I don't know how the other drug you're taking may affect the timetable or your target dose, but your doctor could tell you.

I hear you Rachel. Today is my first day of Straterra. I was diagnosed at the ripe young age of 32, so I can sympathize with your anger toward taking so long. My psychiatrist gave me some good advice in that I should focus on the future and not the past. In fact, when I told my dad, he was so stunned because he exhibited many of the same qualities and is going to see the doctor as well!

The only thing I've noticed is that I do feel a little drowsy, kind of like taking a benadryl tablet. It's not too bad. The other thing is that I seem to be a bit more focused, but this early in the game, I chalk that up to a mental attitude that wants me to succeed and overcome this disability. However, I've read much encouraging news on Strat.

I'll post some Adult ADHD resources as I come across them.

[This message has been edited by jason808 (edited 04-01-2003).]

Ok - today was my 3rd day. I felt better than yesterday - not really tired - and i didnt feel as melow. I dont know if that is good or bad. I did have a lot going on at work so maybe its just that i didnt have time to think about it. I dont really know what to expect - like am i going to be doing a 360?

I have a question for ddsmom - How long did it take for you to feel a change - if you felt a change?
Is this your first ADD meds? thank you for all your help.

Now Jason808 - we need to talk - LOL - how did your first day go? as you can see mine was better than the 1st and 2nd day. Hey this is our time to move forward and i dont see any harm in having a buddy to compare notes with. Let me know how you feel. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

rachel,
I think we have a lot in common. I'm a 26 yr old female just recently diagnosed with ADD. I'm going to start Strattera tomorrow and I'm a bit nervous and excited. When I first discovered I had ADD, I was shocked but happy. I think for the first time in my life I actually have a positive attitude. I feel like I'm being given a second chance at life. I'm always very negative towards myself and this is one of the very few times in my life where I have decided not to dwell in the past. Because, believe me, I can dwell with the best of them! Now That I know I have ADD, I am determined to get better and take on the world. Well, I hope that wasn't too corny but I had to let it out. I'm a little worried about the Strattera side effects but we'll see. I've been on Prozac before and although it did relieve my deppresion I felt that, it was all very surreal. i can't find any other way to describe it. When I was on Prozac I did stuff that was odd, stuff I would normally never do. I'm worried that Strattera might affect me the same way (I'ld appreciate any insight on this). I guess only time will tell.

Day one went OK. No stomach problems...and I have digestive issues. Had some sleeping issues, though. Usually I'm very tired around 10-10:30. I was up till midnight last night. Don't know if it was a unique situation or not. I'm going to monitor this.

I've started reading a book called Journeys Through ADDulthood by Sari Solden. Solden also wrote a book called Womed With Attention Deficit Disorder. I figured if it held my attention for 40 pages in the bookstore, it must be worth reading! LOL

One thing I've begun to notice, even this early in the treatment is that I'm actually wanting to do things now. Before it was a chore to even bring myself to do stuff I liked doing. I hope it gets better still!



[This message has been edited by moderator1 (edited 04-02-2003).]

Welcome Dulce. I think I had the same attitude you have when I was first diagnosed with ADD – I think I focused too much on the past and I wish I hadn’t. I was sooo mad at the world – I kept thinking about what a difference knowing I had ADD earlier would have made. Anyway I am ready to move forward. I am really glad I found this site – it makes me feel better and plus I know I am not alone. It’s really hard for my family and friends to understand me so I am going out and buying them all books on ADD – LOL!!!
One book I am going to pick up is You Mean I'm Not Lazy, Stupid Or Crazy?! By Kate Kelly, Peggy Ramundo. Jason I will also look at the book you mentioned – thanks!

Today is my 4th day taking Strattera – I don’t know if I can say I am focusing better – I wish I was feeling like you Jason. I am not sleepy anymore but I don’t know if that’s b/c I am taking Provigil (it’s for people with narcolepsy – they are treating some ADD patients with it to help them stay alert). Anyway, last night I felt like I was wired. My first couple of days on Strattera I was knocked out – I woke up a couple of times but was able to go back to bed with no problem. Last night I couldn’t sleep at all. I kept looking at the clock –it was horrible!!!

Jason I am with you as far as wanting to do things now. I woke up this morning and I actually wanted to work out – yes something I normally never think about. I called some friends and we are going to go walking tonight if it doesn’t rain (I live in NYC) if not I will use my expansive hanger that is really a treadmill. I think I am making better decisions with the food I eat as well.

One problem I have is still at work I can’t get the job done!! I am an Office Manager for an Investment Banking firm. My desk is still a mess and I start one project and jump to the next with out finishing the first one. I think I am maybe just trying to do too much too soon. I have to learn is how to prioritize!! My bosses must think I like feeling stressed or overwhelmed b/c that’s the only time I get something done. I know that’s bad. Anyway I could go on forever but I won’t. I am going to run out the book store.
Can’t wait to hear how your day was.



[This message has been edited by moderator1 (edited 04-02-2003).]

Today is my 5th day - still not much of a change. I started to get a headache around noon - but I took two Advil’s before it got bad. Today I really tried to focus on my work and I think I got a lot done. Not sure if it was b/c I wanted to get things done or the meds. I really want to know how long does Strattera take to start to work. I wonder if it’s working and I am just set in my old ways so I don’t see it. I did buy that book – “You mean I am not lazy, stupid or crazy” - I love it!!!
Anyway how are you doing Jason808? And Dulce? Any good news with you?

I'm 55 and just discovered I have ADHD. I always thought I had brain damage from football. I had amnesia for a long time. I forget I had this problem before the accident. If you are taking Straterra I suggest throwing it away. I've had every side effect on the label and more: the worst being sexual disfuntion beyond anything I care to aknowledge in public. If you have adolescent boys I beg you not to give it to them. I knew something was wrong with me but they may not know or may be unwilling to share this type of experience with you. Throw your Straterra away!

WOW! I am really sorry to hear that. How long were you taking Strattera?? Are you taking anything now?

I'm on day 3 of Strattera and so far so good. Although, I'm on a pretty low dose. My doctor says she wants to start me out with 25mg for 4 days and then 40mg for 26 days and see how it goes. I weigh 140 lbs and I'm concerned that 40 mg is too low of a dosage. Anybody have any insight on that? Well, on the first day I was somewhat drowsy and very mellow. Today I don't feel as drowsy but I still feel very mellow and relaxed. I'm pretty happy about that because I've been such a stress case lately. I have a 3 yr old that is such a handfull and since I've been on Strattera, I notice i'm a lot more patient with her. I don't think I've raised my voice at her once. Well, I hope things only get better.

I'm 24 and this is my 3rd day on strattera. I just go over a few minutes ago of feeling nausea, though it only lasts a few minutes. The first day after it wore off i passed out cold, i felt like i was drunk! But the next two weren't as bad, I'm pretty alert.
I've had really restless sleep, and normally i sleep well.
The doctor put me on 40mg for the first four days, and then move to 60mg.
I've felt like i've had a lot of caffeine, and i'm a little cloudy in the head, but other than that I'm ok. Oh and a decreased appetite and dry mouth.
hopefully these will wear off, and I'm anxious to see how it will effect my job and organization skills.



[This message has been edited by yellow5 (edited 04-06-2003).]

After 6 weeks stratterra didn't work for me. Never sick, sleepy first few days. After taking Zoloft for awhile I wanted to get to the root of the problem. After reading on ADD it all makes sense. being in special ed in 4th-7th grade(got out after moving to another state where system said "lets see how it goes in regular classes")and getting 1330 on SAT. Being dyslexic- I still have to think when someone says left or right, I will say north south east or west. I've found ways to work around the backward letters and #s but still was VERY hyper and have trouble staying on track, still am at 32. I'm really hoping AdderallXR will work. After 1 week on 10mg and alot of reading I ate some tums this morning and got a hint of what it might be like to be as productive as I should be.

Today is my 8th day taking Strattera 40mg. I meet with my doctor this morning and I thought she was going to up my meds but she didn’t. She said she wanted to keep me at 40mg for 3 weeks. I was also concerned about the whole weight issue feeling that 40mg is not enough. I weigh 188lbs so just think about how I feel. LOL - But for the 1st time I feel that I can actually follow a diet. Besides that I do see good results. I was very pleased this weekend, I was hosting a bridal shower and I had a never ending to do list - normally I would have been STRESSED and making myself sick but not this time – I think I handled everything very well. Even while I was stuck in traffic I remained calm (I HATE TRAFFIC- I normally get nuts!!). People definitely saw a change and even complimented me which made my feel GREAT!! Work is still a little problem – as far as focusing. Anybody else having that problem?
Yellow5 - I felt the same symptoms you did. Most of it will pass – I sill have a decreased appetite (which I don’t mind) and dry mouth. How are you feeling now?

Today was my 6th day on Strattera at 40 mg. No major side effects at this point. Just dry mouth and I get a little tired once in a while. I don't feel as good today as I did yesterday. I'm feeling somewhat down on myself today. I bumped into my boyfriends co-workers when I was doing errands today and I looked like a complete slob. I don't think I made a very good impression. Well, after that I started to feel bad about myself. I hate it that I don't have it 'together' all the time. I spend all day cleaning my apartment and it's still a mess! ugh. Hope I get better soon.

rachel- What as your Doctor's reason for keeping you on 40 mg for 3 weeks? My doctor told me some of her patients were having good success on low doses. I think maybe because it's such a new drug they are trying different approaches out.

Well today is day 6 on strattera. Second day of 60mg.
I can't say I notice a huge difference. My concentration is so-so here at work. I can stay focused on task, but talking to people i still drift off.
I can't sleep!! I hate it, i've tossed and turned every night since i started it. That's really the biggest issue. As for dry mouth, its still here, but no big deal. I don't have a huge appetite, especially mid morning-1pm, i dont think i can even eat, but thats not a big deal. I do get hungry at night though.

For Adhhhd:
My psi doc tells me that Zoloft and Stratterra are counterindicated. That the Zoloft blocks the effectiveness of the strattterra. Something you might want to ask about since zoloft's half life, while less than Prozac's is still considerable.

Hello – Today is DAY 10 – I feel your pain yellow 5 - the last two nights have been horrible – I toss and turn all night and I kept waking up – but up- up like I felt like running around up – I wake up sooooooooooo tired and find it hard to function the whole morning. My job spoke to me about my lateness, which is not good - L
Dulce – I think I can kind of relate to you – I have been really hard on myself too. I also feel paranoid – if I am not in the conversation – I am worried that they are talking about me – I never felt like that before. Still not focusing at work – I feel that unless I completely shut myself out from the rest of the world I wont get anything done. Also I think that I am focusing to much of my time on other things and not on work – so maybe I am not doing my share of the treatment – I don’t know!!! In some ways I feel GREAT – like I think Strettera is really working – but since it is a new drug and everybody is different I don’t know what is right and what is wrong and what to except. I have never been treated for ADD before so I don’t know. I guess we all don’t know. I am really glad you guys are here – you have been a lot of help. It’s late so I check the board tomorrow. Hope everybody has a good day!!!

PS – Dulce, Not really sure why my Dr. wants me at 40mg for 3 weeks – she said something like my body is still getting used to the drug and if I feel good with 40mg – she doesn’t want to raise it just yet – but remember I am also taking 200MG of Provigil.
I take the strettera at 7:30AM and the Provigil at 2PM (I am going to start taking it at 1PM to see if I sleep better). I am still not sure how Provigil, a drug for people with narcolepsy, can help a person with ADD.

http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif
Hi everyone. I'm new to the board. I am 43 recently "OfficiallY" diagnosed with ADD, although I have known that i have had it. I just started taking the Strattera. I also take Effexor XR 150mg which i have been taking for a couple of months. My doc started me out on 40mg 1Xday for 2 weeks, then i will take 60mg 1Xday for 2 weeks, then 40mg 2Xday. He said his experience so far is that: 1/2 of his patients don't feel they are doing any better and the other 1/2 are showing a lot of improvement. Also that of the positive 1/2 many think the 80mg is too much and go back down to the 60mg. Well, we shall see!! My doc doesn't like using stimulant meds on adults, but will if needed. I'm hoping this works!
Rachel: I KNOW the feeling about work. I am always in trouble for not finishing what i start, having too many things going at once. With me I, when i know something is due, i wait until the absolute last minute then i am stressed but will get it done!! I've been this way all my life, in school, at home, its just me! I'm on day 4 of the Strat and the first few days felt very very sleepy. I've never been one to sleep much anyway, so can't tell if its bothering my sleeping. I can usually go on 5 or 6 hours anyway. Well, hopefully everything will work out! BTW I just bought the book Women with Attention Deficit Disorder by Sari Solden - now i just have to make myself sit and read it!!!
Want to see if anyone thinks the same as i do: i believe - in general - it's harder for women with ADD, especially if you have kids and work. We have to do so much multi-tasking and have to keep so many balls in the air that i think it is harder for women, in general.
Well, thanks all for listening!! Have a great day!!!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

------------------
Lauren
recently officially diagnosed
ADD; 3 adult kids, one dh, 4
dogs & 1 brave cat!

This is a GREAT post - definately keep it up. I'm planning on starting Strattera as soon as possible and this blow by blow from you guys is very edifying.

Rachel I took provigil and the stuff made me hyper as hell, but in a physical way that's hard to describe - more like coffee than add stims. Anyway I can't imagine taking 200mg of provigil with other stimulant or stimulant-like medications - I would have been off the wall. You could ask your doc to try just the Strattera with no provigil and see how that goes. that way you can get a baseline on what the Strattera is doing alone and then what it does in combination with the provigil.

Hello Everyone!! I just wanted to leave a quick note - Today was HORRIBLE!!!! I felt like MUSH – I don’t know what happened. All day I felt like I was falling asleep and my head was killing me http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/frown.gif I got nothing done at work and every time I tried to focus and not let the phone or internet disturb me I felt like I was being punished – I didn’t like that feeling at all – it was like I had no control!! Anyway I am still at work and will check back with you guys later. Hope everyone is having a better day than me.

Rachel-
I had the same day as you, so I know how you feel!

Today was the worst day yet. I played with my split ends and stared at the wall all day at work. I had the worst headache and it hurt to try and concentrate on anything, every thought felt all jumbled together. My brain seemed to have shut down on me. By 2 pm, i wanted to go home due to falling asleep and the head thing. I went home and slept for 2 hours, which I never do.

Day 7 - Today was a an absolutely horrible day. Last night I couldn't get to sleep until 4 am. I was physically exhausted but my mind was alert. I was also very nervous, not about anything in particular. Then this morning I felt odd. I felt very nervous and anxious. Rachel, you had mentioned you felt paranoid . . .well, I kind of felt like that too. Not the kind of paranoid where I feel someones after me but more like I was generally afraid. I would catch myself feeling this way and I would make myself stop. I had control over it. But at around 9pm tonight, my heart began racing and i felt slight pressure in my chest. I was really scared! I'm pretty sure i was having and anxiety attack. I had to force myself to take deep breaths and calm down. I didn't know what to do. I was close to going to the emergency room but I was able calm down. I called my doctor but I haven't received a call yet. i feel much better now, more relaxed. I really hope this is a one time occurance because I really want this medication to work for me. Does anyone know if this is common? Or if it's anything to worry about?

Sure sounds like you experienced a panic attack...hope you are feeling better now. Have you tried changing the time of day that you take this medication to see if it has less effect on your sleep cycle that way? Just a thought. I just started Strattera and I took my first dose yesterday evening. It seemed to help me sleep, but then (as you can see) I woke up VERY early...4:00am my time. LOL.

I just started on this board. I've spent some time on a different one " Straterra -4th week". We men get some crapy side effects. It is interesting hearing about all your statements of insomnia or restlessness. After my 6th day on(80mg) I felt like I was thinking about my past and all my faults and how I say the wrong things when I don't mean to. Toss turn, toss and turn. Looking at the clock and wondering if I will ever fall asleep. I hope this subsides soon. Maybee this drug is helping me focus, focus on the wrong thoughts. Does anyone feel like there is pressure on your head like a tight hat? And I feel a little clouded not sharp like on stimulant meds.
Excellent posts, keep them comming.

Day 8 - I feel much better today. I feel calmer and not so anxious. Although, I am extra cautious. Also, I was supposed to go to a baseball game tonight and the thought of being in a large crowded area didn't appeal to me. This is very unlike me. Sometimes I catch myself not thinking about anything and it feels so strange. I don't know if I like it. I think I took some comfort in my constant thinking. Now, it feels so quiet. I can't describe it very well. I'm also not babbling all the time. I'm much more quiet but my thinking does feel cloudy, not completely clear. I don't know what to think of all this . . .I feel like I have no personality. I hope this will change soon. Can anybody else relate?

Hello – Sorry I haven’t been back since Thursday (that horrible day) – Anyway, today is Day 15. Ever since Thursday day 11 – I feel like everything is going downhill. I feel like the old me again – I didn’t want to do anything – I wanted to be alone, and every time someone would ask if I was ok I snapped at them. Saturday I was around a lot of friends and they said I was acting wired, they noticed a good change when I started taking Strattera but this was a different change. Yesterday I had so much to do – but I couldn’t get out of bed. So when I finally woke I had to pay the consequences, and that made my day a little crazy. I go back to my doctor tomorrow and I think it is time to up my dosage of Strattera. I thought I was doing really good and now I feel confused – like how did I let go of what I had – it’s kind of hard to describe feeling – I lost my get up and go feeling.

How is everyone else doing?? I will check back tonight :/

rachel, I also don't feel as good as I did at first. This is day 12 for me. I don't feel anything like my old self but I'm not completely happy. In social situations I am very reserved and quiet, which I'm usually not. Also, I feel like I'm a boring person to be around. I used to joke around and be silly and now I'm more serious and quiet. I feel like a robot sometimes, neither happy or sad. Or maybe this is what it's like to be a non-ADD person. I notice I'm a little more motivated but nothing extreme. I also don't interrupt people like I use to. It's only been 2 weeks so hopefully there will be some greater improvements. I think it's time to increase my dosage also.

Hello to everyone on this board. I have been watching this post for 2 weeks now and thought it was time to come on board.
My name is Bruce and i have add but only found out 4 months ago. I'm 47 years old and like some of you mad that they didn't catch it sooner. I have taken Wellbutrin,Celexa,and now started last tuesday Strattera 10 mg. twice a day. yes i toss and turn trying to go to sleep and then waking up at 3am almost every morning.
Tomorrow going back to doctor and getting bigger dose as i feel almost nothig except tired and first day felt a little high,but no headaches.
I'm just glad i now know that the stupid life i have lead is now add as i thought how i lived life was "normal".
Oh, one last thing. I'm still not married as no one yet will put up with me for very long. Oh well, here's to the future.

hi, im 17 and i was diagnosed at 12 with add, i originally began taking ritalin when first diagnosed and then moved on to adoralin around 15 and had to discontinue using it because a tremor it would cause in my hands and recently began to use stattera 2 weeks ago, well i ever since i have taken it i have felt sleepy and weak with no energy, i just wanted to know if this was normal, because i did not take the medicine yesterday because i forgot too and i felt great, not tired with energy

I'm 23 and I was diagnosed with ADD 5 months ago. I've been taking Strattera for just over 9 weeks. I can't seem to find anyone who has been taking it longer, but I guess that's not a huge surprise. I've noticed a few things. The first initial side effect that really got me was dry mouth. It was very bad at first then subsided, came back again when my dosage was upped, and has mostly subsided again. I was feeling tired, but I think I can attribute it to the fact that I would wake up for hours in the middle of the night. I was confused because it wasn't every night though. After monitoring things, I noticed that when I would have caffeine during the day, I would wake up in the middle of the night, my mind running frenziedly. I have always consumed plenty of caffeine and, frankly, relied on it, but it has never affected my sleep in the past. Strattera really seems to have heightened my sensitivity to it. I would say if you're having difficulty sleeping, try cutting out caffeine for a bit and see if it helps. And if you're not seeing results from the Strattera right away, don't fear. It seems to really work into the system very gradually and works consistently through the day, so you won't feel the effects as drastically as with other meds. But it seems like that only because you are more stable. Strattera doesn't have the highs and lows that accompany other meds, and even though that helps you know when the others are working, the rollercoaster is part of the problem with them. If you're just starting, and feel like the drawbacks are greater than the benefits, give the side effects time to subside, and the medication time to build up in your system. I really feel like it's helping me without making me feel medicated, inconsistent, or abnormal in any other way.

jimd23, Thank you for posting. I think we would all love to hear more about your experiences with Strattera, especially since you've been on it so long. Has it helped you with organization? This is my biggest problem and I'm hoping Strattera will help me with that. Also, can you elaborate on how it has changed you for the better. Pretty please!

31 male here. I started strattera but gave up after a couple of weeks because it was putting me to sleep during prime work hours. It did feel great the first three days. Clear mind, no tinnitus, amazing quiet for the first time in my life. But then the sleepiness took over.

After reading posts on this board and others, it seems I should have stuck with it longer and tried taking it at night or dropping down to 60mg instead of the target 80mg. So I'm thinking of doing another trial.

I do have one concern. Many adult males seem to be having adverse effects in the erection department. Unfortunately (or fortunately, come to think of it) I didn't have the chance to put this to the test during my two weeks. Anyone have positive experiences in this area?

Organization is getting better, but it's gradual. More than anything with organization, my problems have always seemed to be not with constantly creating messes, (once together I can stay that way for a little while) but with periodic phases of what I call "paralysis of the will". These are the times when I just can't bring myself to do something, no matter how much I know it needs to be done. As much as I try to focus and to force myself, sometimes I have to just walk away. It's during these phases when things start slipping - laundry, clutter, tracking finances, keeping up with work. And once I start getting behind, it's always just been a snowball effect- getting worse and worse until I forget something very important, overdraw my checking account, or lose something - until I finally must pull my life back into order. This is where I notice the difference in things. It's not that now I'm incredibly organized or that I always have the energy to be on top of things, but those periods of complete helplessness that send my life into a downward spiral have diminished. It's still difficult because the meds don't help me like doing mundane things any more than I did before. But it makes them more bearable, and will help you maintain whatever systems you put into place. I think the key is that we take the time to actually do that. When it comes down to it, it's still something you're going to have to discipline yourself to do, which kind of sucks for people who crave stimulation and variety over discipline, but with the meds it's definitely more doable.

duded - No negative effects in that department.

I'm 23. I was just diagnosed with ADHD a few monthes ago but it was obvious for a longgggg time. I think so anyway. School was a nightmare. It was basically just a place for me to sit for 8 hours a day..kinda like how work is now. LOL. Yeah.

I'm currently on paxil for anxiety. Last week my dr. teamed it w/ Wellbutrin and things are going better. I was also prescribed Ritalin which i dont like much.

I'm the inattentive type ADHD.

PS. My room is always a mess, and my bills are scattered all over.

DAY 17: Hello Everyone!! I met with my doctor last night and I told her that other than having no appetite I really felt no difference in my being able to focus. I couldn't get to sleep right away and I woke up at 4AM EVERY morning (I feel for you Bruce27) - I thought the problem was taking the Provigil in the late afternoon - but after reading more about strattera - it may not be from the provigil. Anyway my doctor told me to take the 200mg of Provigil in the morning and take 40mg of Strattera at 1PM and then another dosage of Strattera 40mg at 6PM. She said to do this for a couple of days and then take the full 80mg at 1PM. I hope this works!! To the new people that have joined the board - THANK YOU!! I feel that reading everyone's post really helps me out.
I feel like you guys are talking about me - LOL!!! I can relate to most of what you guys say you have been threw. We have to look on the bright side - we are getting help!! And we should all me proud of that!

PS - Jimd23 - WOW is all have to say - your last post was incredible - thank you very much - everything you said is soooooo true!!! And the sad part is I keep telling me self "I am going to do this or I am going to do that" and in the end nothing gets done. I really want to try to work and that.

Dulce - how are you doing?? Any good news?


[This message has been edited by rachelv21 (edited 04-16-2003).]

ok saw doctor yesterday and now up to 40mg once in morning. he didnt like me taking it 2 times a day and said thats why i cant sleep.
dannyrod: weakness is gone now after getting used to it. I move my foot when i sit down and cant stop until i make it stop.
jimd23: it is hot here anyway so dry mouth is the territory but my lips are really cracked so i use lip balm everyday. I had a fast pulse (180) for 3 hours 4 years ago and now am on a beta blocker which keeps my pulse very steady so no hyper stuff anymore. doctor told me no more caffine (i was on mountain dew for 10 years).
now im on sprite. Also quit my job of GREAT stress and got much better job if i could concentrate on it. Have spent 3 days in truck doing nothing before.
Checking account was closed twice. No more! Laundry is piled high like always,find it easier to buy new.
duded: no problem in that area either but stay away from celexa,as that will take away your "pop" at the end.
women make like it but you will not know.
dulce and litaxxx: school was a waiting place till i could get home and do nothing too. I never did homework but said i did. hated school. wellbutrin was good to me the first day but nothing after that. I should have stayed on it longer at higher dose. My room is total kaos and has been for years and years. I clean every now and then but watch tv a lot more. Last time i "cleaned" i found bills i had not opened for years! Sad huh?
And now rachel: you are the queen of this group as you started it and i want to go noware else. 40mg at 6pm?
80 mg at 1pm? That really sounds to late in the day and will keep you up even more but im not your doctor so do what they say. hang in there we will get over this some day with luck.
I have one last thing to ask everyone and i want to see who else might do the same thing i do. How many of you sleep on one side of the bed because the other side is full of what you think is "nessisary" things? I cleand it once and really enjoyed having the whole bed to myself but didnt last long and back to same thing again.
Sorry for the long letter but remember when i had fun typing in the chat groups years ago and well it was fun for a while.
Cheers! everyone

Ok i know i forget things too but what happened to everyone in this thread?

I'm here.
Here are some pointers for ADHD sufferers.

Exercise: Meaning cardio and weight lifting. Kickboxing aerobics. Running. Free Weights...

The more intense the better. And besides, who doesnt need to shape up?

Oh and bruce, ever try Chai tea???? Its SO good.

jimd23 - how long did it take for the Straterra to start working for you? The doctor and the literature say 3 to 4 weeks. My son's been on it 4 weeks and things are a little better at home but he's doing a terrible job paying attention, staying still, and doing his work in school. I want to give the medication a chance because my son's sleeping and eating well now but don't want to wait if there's no chance of it working. He's already having too hard a time in school.

Hi guys, I'm a newbie to the board. I am on day 2 of Strattera, and I am hopeful, and relieved by your posts.

I was diagnosed 2 years ago which caused my first major depression sparked off by my grief...yay! I had always wanted to be a doctor, and now I am kicked out of school for a year (on my 7th, for my BA in Sociology) for bad grades. I have yet to take advantage of the disability accomadations I am allowed to use there. I am taking to opportunity of this year off to work and try out new meds until I find one that works for me, to help me with depression, anxiety, and ADD.

I have temporal lobe and cingulate system ADD, with hyper-vigilance and so I was told not to be put on a stimulant without a mood stabilizer (i.e. anti-epileptic drug) first. I ignored that advice with dire consequences.

These are my meds to date, and my experiences:

Celexa: worked ok, not great, sex. probs, and severe cold turkey withdrawal symptoms.

Wellbutrin: caused panic attacks and a psychotic episode. It appears that that type of stimulant was extremely bad for me.

Prozac: 1st time it saved my life. I used it during my major depression and once I hit 60 mg, I turned around. sex probs only side effect. Second time, it did nothing for me, but cause me severe anxiety to the point of not being able to leave my bed. Just shows how meds can work differently for the same person at different times. Great huh?

Paxil: Did not help my depression nor my anxiety. Sex probs. and urination hestitation. Fun. Severe sleepiness. I am now going off of it! Yay!

Depakote: No known side effects. Also I don't know what it does for me, but I assume it does something good, I don't feel any different.

Ritalin and Adderall: I abused it and it made me insane and anorexic. This was caused by my need for the mood stabilizer. Focus was better, but not worth the price.

Strattera: Just started, PLEASE GOD WORK FOR ME!!

My insurance wouldn't cover Strattera, but my doctor said that with my problems with anxiety, they will cover it at his request.

The last two days I felt exactly like I took some Benadryl (even my sinuses feel like it.) I am more calm, more alert, but still spacy? Also I have noticed some slight paranoia/sensitivity to my environment. I have no appetite which I LOVE. I also have been waking up early in the morning which I NEVER do.

What dosing time of the day works best for you guys? I will be taking it twice a day...

Thank you guys for all your useful information http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Hello EVERYONE!! Sorry I have been MIA – I went away for the holiday and then things got a little crazy at work – I was able to focus better which was good. In my last post I told you guys my doctor upped my meds to 80mg – first taking one pill of 40mg at 1:00PM and the other at 6:00PM – I did that and everything was fine – I took the full 80mg on Monday and was ok too – I thought I was going feel sleepy at work but I didn’t. So far so good still have no appetite (loving it) and dry mouth.
I wanted to ask you guys – what do you think is better….. taking Strettera in the AM or PM – I have never taken 80mg in the AM so I don’t know, but taking it at 1:00Pm seems to be working. However, I don’t know if it is because of the strettera but lately I have been having nightmares - yes sounds funny but I have been. They are pretty scary and I have a hard time falling back asleep (because I am scared) – again go ahead laugh – LOL

How are my old buddies doing?? Dulce?? Jimd23?? Bruce27??
To the newbie’s – I am glad this post helps!!!

I just read in a different post that because the half-life of Strattera is like 5.5 hours, that you aren't supposed to take it at night. I will end up taking mine in the AM and then again in the late afternoon.

Hi Rachel, thought we lost you. I didn't get on here as much as i should, but i read more than i write.
The sleep disorder is ok for the most part now.Don't wake up in the middle of the night like i used to.
This is almost the third week on strattera. I'm starting to feel like doing things a little bit. Not all the time,but a little. I'm still on 40mg. Target should be about 80mg which might come tuesday. Also going to ask about concerta and see if i can get on that too.
My doctors doesn't like the stimulants but i think i can change their minds. Seems to be the best combo i've seen on here. I promise to get get on here more often.

[This message has been edited by bruce27 (edited 04-26-2003).]

this is my 6th day on it----my main objective was to lead a normal life and not sleep all the time and have some energy--i was on 40mg for 4 days only stomach pains for one day but i'm now. i can't tell if it is doing anything because i'm asleep all the time---i go back to the dr in 1 week--is there any medications for add that do not make you sleep

hey everyone,
I'm so sorry I haven't posted in so long. We were all on a roll and then stopped. Let's try to keep it going again. I find everyone's post really helpfull. As far as Strattera goes, I'm still hanging in there. Ever since I moved up to 80 mg this week, I feel much better. I don't feel like a zombie like I did when I was on 40 mg. I was on 40 mg way too long. I wish my doctor would have bumped up my dosage sooner. I feel I wasted a lot of time being on 40 mg so long. I'm starting to feel a little frustrated. I want to get better already. I take 80 mg in the morning but I feel like it wears off in the evening. I get tired and lazy. My doctor tells me it's not suppose to wear off. I'm thinking about taking 60mg in the morning and then 20 mg in the afternoon and see how that goes. Well, enough about me . . . how's evryone else?

Hello everyone!
Just wanted to update you.....

I am supposed to be taking 80mg at 1:00Pm but I really have not been doing that – I take 40mg around 1PM and then the other a little later on – but lately when I get home I am sooooo tired all I want to do is sleep – I used to take Strettera in the AM and Provigil at 2PM but the docotor switched it – Anyway – I think I am going to start taking 40mg in the AM and taking the other 40mg around 1PM and the provigil around 2PM – or something like that – I am just worried that I wont be able to fall asleep – Other than still trying to find out when to take strattera – it’s been working ok – the only side effect (and I hope it’s a side effect) is that I am paranoid all the time – especially at work – I hate feeling like that – still have dry mouth and no appetite but as I stated before I have no problems with that. How is everybody else doing?

PS – just to refresh anyone’s memory – I started taking Strattera on March 30 -40mg and on April 15th 80mg.

Rachel!! It's good to hear from you. Sorry, to hear about the paranoia. I also had that side effect for only a little while ,then it went away. Since I moved up to 80 mgs 2 weeks ago, I have been doing much better. I did my research and I found out that if you are on a dosage that is too low for your body weight, you can experience bad side effects(like mood swings). So, that would explain why I was miserable on 40 mgs.
Gradually, I'm noticing improvements. I just hope it really kicks in soon. I have been experimenting with the dosage also and i discovered that it is much better to split the doses. I take 60mg in the am and 20 mg at 2 pm. This combination works so much better than taking it all at once or splitting it 40-40. When I would take 80mgs all at once I would be grumpy in the evening(I think it would wear off). I have also read on other boards that the 60-20 dosage seems to be the best combination. Most of my side effects have gone away. Occasionally I get dry mouth, like once or twice a week but that's it.
Also, I don't pig out like I use to. Before, I would go into some kind of trance and eat until I was completely stuffed. Afterwards, I would hate myself for it. Now, I can actually stop when I'm satisfied and not satiated.

rachel and everyone else: KEEP POSTING!!!

Hey – today I took 40mg at 9AM and I feel so down – I am afraid to take the other 40mg now. I haven’t taken my provigil today – and maybe that’s why – since I normally take that first thing in the AM. Anyway after reading your post dulce – I am going to take the other 40mg (it’s 2:20PM) – I will write back later to let you know how I feel. And about the whole eating thing – I HEAR you LOUD AND CLEAR – it’s amazing sometimes the control I have over food.

PS – I started to get a rash around my checks – anybody else experience that?? They look really red and raw – they kind of burn – this has been going on off and on for about 2 weeks now. I haven’t used any other new products so I am guessing it is the Strattera.

rachel, have you told your doctor about the rash. Hopefully it will go away. It could be something like dermatitis and all it needs is some cortisone cream or somethng like that. I intentionally took 80 mg in the am yesterday and the day before yesterday(a little experimenting). I felt horrible all day. I felt very aggressive and angry. This has definately proven to me that it is so much better to split your dosage.

Originally posted by rachelv21:
Hi - I am 25 years old and just started taking Straterra. Today is my second day. I was diagnosed with ADD two weeks ago. (this was very sad that it took 25 years to find out that there was something wrong with me) My doctor started me on 200MG of Provigil. I felt absolutely no difference. So my doctor gave me Straterra 40mg in addition to the proivil. The one thing I can tell is that I am really sleepy. I am hoping this will pass. People at work keep asking if I am ok b/c I am very mellow – something I am usually not. I don’t know if I am focusing any better b/c my mind is set on trying to find out as much information on Straterra as possible. I was wondering if anyone can tell me what to expect – I have read a lot of different sites but they mostly talk about kids. Also if anyone has any advice they can give me on dealing with ADD as an adult.
I guess i am just really scared and i want something that is going to work - my whole life has been a mess and i am tired of it falling apart.

Do you believe in Natural Supplement?

[This message has been edited by kool_Mod (edited 05-18-2003).]

I am so glad to find this thread. I am a 28 year old, diagnosed a few years ago. The diagnosis helped my ADD more than anything else...just being aware of it has helped me so much. Ritalin is the best med I have been on, but my doc suggested I try Straterra. I am only on day 4, 25 mg. I have had all of the side effects mentioned, mainly feeling zoned out, like I am on an antihistimine. I suppose this effect would be great if I were hyperactive, but I am low-energy anyway, so this has put me under! I have also noticed my vision seems to be funky. My eyes seem to involuntarily stare into space when I am trying to look at something. Hopefully you all are doing well, just thought I'd bump this post to the top to see if I could get anymore updates. This is a great thread...it is so hard to find info on ADD meds for adults!

I am 33yo, the mom of 2 boys, and newly diagnosed ADD...i only wish i had the "H" to go with it. I was begun on 40 to double to 80 after two weeks. I went on vacation and never did because taking the dose in the morning made me so tired and sleepy. Just before my six week check, i experimented with dosing and if i took the 40 at bedtime, i slept poorly but woke up very early and had the total energetic get-up-and-go that i never had, could concentrate, get my work done (i work at home), organize, etc.

At my six week appt, my doc did up me to 80 but taking two 40s at one time, not splitting up the dose due to the daytime drowsiness. However, since I did sleep poorly and my energy pooped out late morning/early afternoon, she suggested adding Ritalin to me and hoping that made the difference. I will find out this week and I hope she does.

I have found that with Strattera, life has only gotten better and more organized than ever before. But, even tho I have been on this med for two months, the sleepiness has still not gone away. Will it ever?

------------------
k. mom of boys
*aim for the moon for if you miss, you will be amongst the stars*

Hi everyone. I am a 41 yo mom of 2, on Strattera 80 mg for about 5 weeks now. I have felt nothing! It's very discouraging because, like many of you have posted, my life is a chaotic mess, especially at home. I'm giving it another month to see I have any benefit from it. If not, my pdoc suggested Metidate. Adderal did nothing for me either. Wellbutrin made me hungry and anxious. Anyone else fell like they're taking a placebo?

I just started Strattera. How long did it take for all you to notice any difference in your concentration? If this is like other meds I have been on (not for ADD) it could take up to several weeks! Please tell me that that isn't true.

Dana

Originally posted by dulce:
Day 7 - Today was a an absolutely horrible day. Last night I couldn't get to sleep until 4 am.

I am starting to think this may be a common thing during days 7-12 or so.

I'm on day 33, and things are going very well.

I am sleeping normally -- better than in years, actually -- and most of the annoying stomach-related side effects have normalized.

There are some "sexual side effects" threads going that have other information.

All in all, I am LOVING strattera.

Just started day 2 on strattera...25 year old male..not looking forward to all these side effects everyone is talking about. I'm surprised to see that I'm on a relatively LOW dose...10mg twice daily...I actually faxed my doctor the information about Strattera -- and he was reading from what I sent him when writing the prescription! Guess I'm the first one for him. He even went so far as to tell me to just take 10mg once and see how that goes..we'll see!! All in all I was a little spaced out yesterday with a bad headache...but this is probably because I had just stopped taking Xenadrine the day before. Only other thing I'm taking is a multivitamin and a potassium vitamin for the gym. I also take 46g protein 2-3 times daily to help aid in muscle recovery - though I don't think any of this would interact. We'll see how today goes...hopefully not as spacey as yesterday. I run an entire web sales channel at my company - everything from ebay to half.com to yahoo and overstock.com..it's pretty stressful so I can't use the out-of-it feeling. know what I mean? http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

ps- doctor says he really can't give me ritalin/dexedrine past age 21 because they can induce psychosis...(i took one or the other all throughout grade school and high school)...he says stimulant based meds are no good for adults because of the whole potential for psychosis thing.. I seem to see plenty of adults taking it on this board - is he blowing smoke up my tush? ;-)

It's smoke! Stimulants are commonly prescribed for adults with ADD, I've been on Ritalin for about 10 years with good results.

I'm on the fourth day at my target dose of Strattera (10th total) along with the Ritalin for yet another bout with serious depression. The first couple of days were rough in terms of grogginess and temperature control fluctuations when I started at 40 mg and grogginess again when I went to 80mg, but yesterday was somewhat better, we'll see about today. I've got some urinary side effects and trying to drink a lot of water to minimize them. So far so good in the sexual side effects department, it's somewhat different, but not markedly so and better than the mild problems I think Wellbutrin gave me the two times I've used it for extended periods.

I'm getting very good early anti-depressant results from Strattera and I think it's helping with concentration.

[This message has been edited by Dumpster (edited 06-06-2003).]

See...that's the thing! You mention depression, and he uses that in his prime example for not giving it to me. He said he had a good friend who also was a patient whom he had prescribed Dexedrine..and it triggered depression...so much so that his friend ended up killing himself. I'm sure his reluctance to prescribe a stimulant based med is more out of grief than anything else...but could the two be linked? I'm afraid to play with fire..my only issue is ADHD and I'd like to keep it that way if possible..but both Ritalin and Dexedrine WORKED when I was a kid - like a charm!

Anyway. Had a little constipation this morning - the first of many side effects I've heard associated with Strattera.. I didn't even go to the bathroom yesterday..probably not related, although I've been a regular daily patron to the best seat in the mens room for months until I started the Strattera..

If the sexual side effects kick in, I'm done with it. I read a message from some guy named George on google groups that sexual dysfunction is almost guaranteed given the fact that Strattera binds itself to lipids (fats) -- and that semen along with the whole tract down there is full of it.. Anyone had this happen yet?

The cynic in me says that Lilly is pushing this new creation to make up for past business losses and may not be so up front about the inevitiability of some of the side effects..

Is there anyone who has been on Strattera for a LONG time...like more than 2-3 months? I know it just came out this year..

Thanks! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wink.gif

My doctor started me at 18mg today for the next 4 days and the 25 after that working my way up to 40mg. Felt kinda spaced out for a little while but at least I'm not having a hard time writing this post. I usually space out after the 4 words.

I'll keep u all posted.

PS. Age 30

[This message has been edited by SnowDa5_9 (edited 06-11-2003).]

New here to message boards. 2 months on strattera, nothing else ever except wellbutrin 1 month to quit smoking and mild depression. I am learning how to manipulate most of my side effects. The biggest one was body temperature during cardio exercise. I sweat much more than before, which is good but my body was simultaniously frigid and I was nauseus to the point I had to stop or finish early. I just dont take the strattera until I'm finished working out and this seems help. Ledbyte, can you explain more about the strattera attaching itself to lipids? Is this true and what does it mean besides erectile dysfunction? Is it helping or hurting the breakdown process? Does anyone know if I can take 80mg at once or does it have to be 2x a day? Thanks, Lora *28 yrs old.

I've been on Strattera for 3 days now. I started at 18mg working my way up to 40mg. This is a much lower dose than everyone else seems to be on. 18mg on day 1 seemed a little too mcuh for me but i feel a alot better 2day and ready to move on to 25mg on day 5.

I read a book yesterday. Havent been able to do thaat without a gun to my head in years.

Originally posted by Lora333:
New here to message boards. 2 months on strattera, nothing else ever except wellbutrin 1 month to quit smoking and mild depression. I am learning how to manipulate most of my side effects. The biggest one was body temperature during cardio exercise. I sweat much more than before, which is good but my body was simultaniously frigid and I was nauseus to the point I had to stop or finish early. I just dont take the strattera until I'm finished working out and this seems help. Ledbyte, can you explain more about the strattera attaching itself to lipids? Is this true and what does it mean besides erectile dysfunction? Is it helping or hurting the breakdown process? Does anyone know if I can take 80mg at once or does it have to be 2x a day? Thanks, Lora *28 yrs old.


Hey Lora-

I basically wrote everything I know...and I haven't necessarily been able to verify that, either. I picked that up from a day of intense googling..I'd call Lilly with those questions.

Still slapping back the strattera and seeing minimal results...I'm on 10mg twice a day, sounds to me like it's a little too weak to take affect based on what everyone else is taking..I'll stick to it for now. How is everyone else doing?? Posts have slowed the last couple of days....

ledbyte

Hola everybody,
I'm 26, talking to my Dr. about a possible diagnosis of ADHD and potentially starting Strattera-- after 10 years of MULTIPLE drug therapies and diagnoses of anxiety, bipolar, and a host of other things that weren't quite right. I can definately relate to what many of you have been dealing with. Whoever was upset that they were 188lbs...lol, girl, believe me it could be worse.
Anyway I will let you all know how it goes if I start Strattera (just started Lexapro so we'll see how that goes 1st), but in the meantime I wanted to remind everybody of some things that came to mind while reading posts.
First, obviously everybody has different side effects and responses. There was one guy who advised everybody to throw away their Strattera because he had a bad experience...doesn't sound like anybody did, but we have to remember how different we all are. My sister, very similar to me in many ways, has had totally different reactions to some drugs than I have.
The other thing is that we all have SO many things going on-- most of us have mood disorders on top of, or possibly BECAUSE of, ADHD...so when a bad day (or week) hits, or sleepiness kicks in, I'm inclined to stick it out and realize that there are a million other things acting on my day other than just a new drug. Plus even if it was the drug-- with my life "falling apart" too as Rachel says, I'm willing to deal with a week or two of weird sleep or decreased sex drive if it will ultimately help me get things on track again.
I look forward to seeing how everybody does with their efforts-- we're all in similar crappy boats and I am totally cheering for all of you. Hang in there!!

=)

I second chelonia.

Everybody will have different reactions and varied success with the various meds, but considering the alternative they may or may not be worth it.

I'm on my 5th day on Sattera and with the exception on a little I've been fortunate enough to be side effect free. On my second day on the meds i started reading a Novel (something i havent been able to do in years) and I'm halfway through it. It still requires a little self disipline but I can sit down to my work (self-employed, work at home) for several hours.

I've been able to achive this at 18mg working my way up to 40mg.

I just want every to understand that its not all bad and there is hope.

For me! I am 30 years old!

I discovered that I had ADD when I was 18 years old. Lord knows that if I would have known just a few years earlier that High School would have been a completely different story! When I found out, I was lucky enough to have a Dr. that trusted me and let me try a few different meds before I locked in on Ritalin. Which, by the way, worked wonders for me. I took it for 8 years before it started to lose its effect on me. When I started a new job, my new employers insurance insisted that I be tested by a psychiatrist in order for them to pay for my meds. Well, needless to say that was a disaster....there are about 6 months of my life that I do not remember because of all the meds that he had me on....trying to prove that I was NOT ADD. When that was the case all along. When that nightmare ended...I simply visted a bookstore that led me to several different books. The one that struck me the most was "Driven To Distraction : Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood" by Edward Hallowell (Author). It was a book of short stories about kids and adults with ADD. The cool thing about it is that it does not give you all the psycho babble, it just tells storied about peoples lives and how the discovered and dealt with their own ADD. You will find yourself indentifying with parts of all of them. In a way it helps you define yourself. After arming myself with that knowledge of myself, I decided that I was going to try the Pshychologist "thing" again... but with a different approach. I wrote a letter to myself about my life, then I had my mother write a letter to me as well. I then took that to the pshychiatrist and just had him simply read the letter. I was not in his office more than 20 minutes, he reached down, wrote the script for me to get back on ritalin (after a 2 year, very frustrating hiatus off of it) and I am hereby back on track and loving life again. I did recently try Strattera....and yuck...pooh.....no thanks.... Anyway that is my story hope it helps!

:wave

You are right there is more required of women vs men. your brain has evolved to accomodate the difference.
Men are partially handicaped ( reduced R-brain and R-L brain conections.

Have fun.
Joe http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/redface.gifut

***SOME OF THIS IS A LITTLE GRAPHIC***

I have been reading this and other strings for a few days now. I would like to contribute what I can. There are many Strattera groups out there, so please direct anyone you think this might help back here.

I started Strattera about a week ago. At first I noticed I was up some at night. No nausea or headaches, but I did have some of the sexual side affects.

***GRAPHIC PART***The sexual side effects were the most noticable. At times I suffered an inability to get an erection. (This was not always a problem) Ejaculation was less "forceful" and of less quantity than normal. It was often out of sync with "climax". I have ejaculated before feeling the "climax". After ejaculation, I did have some testicular discomfort. I would not call it real pain. I had a feeling of pressure that was uncomfortable, but not disabling. It felt like I had not erleased all the semen I was supposed to, and that it had backed up.***

I also had some irregularity in urination. There were a few times when I gould not go despite the definate feeling of needing to. Other times getting to the toilet was a definate emergency. Also, when I did urinate, there were times when it seemed there was always a little more to get out. I also occasionally had some of what seemed to be semen follow the urine.

Most of that has subsided. I still have some sleep problems, but it works out for me. I go to bed later than I used to, and then I get a full day's work. I do not get tired during the day (I get some some caffiene).

Good News! Overall, I feel as if I can concentrate and stay on task more than ever before, all without being high. Ritalin did little for me. Adderall helped, but somedays I felt really high. I am a teacher, and it was obvious that some of my students observed this. I could tell from the way they looked at me they thought I was on something.

Since I started Strattera, I have been involved in a work project that is the worst case for someone with ADD. I had to set my own goals, have no timeline, no supervision and plenty of opportunity for distraction. However, I have accomplished more than I thought I could. I really feel focused and able to stay on task.

In the beginning I considered stopping Strattera, but I am not sure now. I will see my doctor again next week. This will be before I have completed my entire sample of the med. I will see how the side effects go before that and then decide.

Some of the things I have noticed may be a factor for some people.

First, the sample my doctor gave me included a lower dose to get used to the drug. Since the packet was labled day by day, it is possible that each pill had a small increase in dosage. It seems that several people writing in have had problems; however, they did not indicate that they had this initial dose. COuld be that problems came from too much too soon

If you are feeling tired, consider this. If you have been taking traditional ADD meds, you have just come off a heavy stimulant. You might be tired until your body gets used to not having that kick.

I have noticed some people on the groups I have read say that they still seem to have trouble getting organized. One person in particular said she had a desk full of work and couldn't get it organized (tips below). We need to remember that there is no MAGIC pill. Many of us have learned bad habits over the years. It was a catch 22. ADD made us develop bad habits, and our bad habits made the effects of the ADD worse. We need to learn to organize ourselves; Strattera just makes this possible.

Find a book on organization and try to follow it.
Get with a support group and learn some good habits.

Don't try to tackle a mountain. If you have a desk full of paper, or some momentous project, you have to break it down. This is hard because we who have ADD tend to be "whole picture" people. This is because we could never sit still or concentrate long enough to see the small parts. Take the project a piece at a time. If necessary write out a plan. ( I know boring)
Most succesful people I know are planners and list makers who consistantly follow a plan.

For the lady with the desk, make it a policy (turn it into a habit) to NEVER pick up a piece of paper without taking care of it. Don't just move it; complete it, answer it, file it solve it, dispose of it. Little by little you will discover there is this cool top to your desk.


Good luck

38 yr old male on Strattera for a few months now, currently up to 120 mg. a day, at 6'4" # 280, my Dr. felt I was in need of the this higher dosage. Having some difficultly falling alseep at times, but have noticed gains in my ablity to start and finish tough, boring tasks that I have put off prior. Didn't respond to the stimulants, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed here. Have noticed some sexual anomalies after I bump up to 120 mg. from 100 mg. But this might be a good thing for me?

Strattera is going to make you sleepy and mellow. The sleepness will pass, but you being mellow will not. That is one thing strattera is supposed to do. This is how strattera has worked for me. I hope this helps.

http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bouncing.gif ~*~B~*~ http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bouncing.gif

I'm new to this discussion and new to taking Strattera. I'm 45 years old and have known and been in treatment for ADHD for many years. I've been on Strattera for about three weeks now and relate to the the various effects and side effects talked about in this discussion. What strikes me most is that participants are being given high initial doses and are experiencing strong reactions, both good and bad. The sample package I was given by my doctor included capsles for the first four days that were 18mg each, to be followed by 25mg capsles for the next couple of weeks. I also take Prozac at 20 mg/day, which is mataballized in the same emzyme pathway as Strattera. This means that the half-life for the Strattera will be longer than if I did not take Prozac. No one has been able to tell me how large the synergistic effect is or can be. My doctor and I anticipated that I would go up to at least 40mg/day of Strattera. Instead I have gone back down to 18mg becuase the side effects of poor sleep and daytime tiredness where too strong. I am getting good results including an increased ability to focus. It is too early to tell if I will stay at 18mg or go up again after (hopefully) the negative effects go away. We have all had ADD/ADHD for many years. How about taking a few extra weeks or months to try this new medications gradually. When I take a new psych med I am always full of hope and fear and it is difficult to tell what the meds is really doing separate from my emotions. I like to take a small dose for long enough that I kind of forget about it and then evaluate it then. It's like trying to catch a glimpse of yourself in a shop window as you pass by. You try to see yourself "objectively" as if it was someone else looking at you. Taking 40mg/per day to start, even if that is the target dose, does not seem prudent. Remember, for all the nueropsychiatrists know about the brain, they don't know much about how these meds really work.

Hi Rachel,

I took strattera for about two months and had to stop because of sexual side effects which should not be a problem with you since I am a male but it also was making me tried during the day and not sleeping good at night. I did get very good affects on my AD/HD though. I switched to Adderal XR. My son ironically switched from concerta becuase of too many clicks to Strattera. He is also sleepy but our phsycoligist recommended he take it before bed. About a week now and it seems to be working good. I is also working good for his AD/HD so try it!!

Hello everyone – I am sooooooo sorry I have been MIA!!
I have been in a crazy mood almost depression for a while – I stopped taking Strattera about a month ago – not by choice!!!! I canceled my doctor apt and didn’t reschedule right away – being that my doctor is very busy I got an apt that was about 3 weeks from the day I called. anyway I ran out of my meds and called my doctor to see if she can give me a refill and she said “NO” – since she hasn’t seen me she cant give me a refill – I was upset but got over it. About a week later I HATED the way I felt – I felt out of control – it was HORRIBLE – I can’t even being to describe how I felt and how I acted – I called my doctor and I didn’t get to speak with her but her assistant and told her how I was feeling and that I didn’t think it was fair that the doctor didn’t refill my meds – HOW DO YOU DO THAT TO SOMEONE!!! I finally got used to them and then just like that I have to stop. Maybe I was just back to my old self again but since I had a taste of how it is to feel a little normal – to have some kind of control – to be able to focus – and have that taken away from me – I WAS GOING NUTS!!!!!!!
It’s been about a month and I have an appt. on July 8th – I am sooooooooooooo mad at my doctor – I don’t know what to say to her – when I think about it I start crying.

I have never been on any other meds for ADD so I can’t compare it to anything but I have to say that taking strattera definitely made a difference in my life – maybe not right away but it worked!!
Anyway thanks for letting me vent!!!!!

Hi Rachelv21 i too have been missing. My doctor told me i could have stimulants finally and before i could get adderall the va said too many people abused the stimulants so they voted that no one gets stimulants anymore so my pills were never filled and i got mad and didnt make two appt. so they kicked me back to the beginning again which would mean another 5 months of the same tests over again and then still no stimulants so i told them where to go.
Now im depressed and mad and dont care anymore.Stupid add.
Stupid doctors.Stupid world!

I want to reply to Rachel and Jason. I was diagnosed with add (with depression) at 31. I just wish that I knew 30 years ago what I know now. Things in my life didn't add up - 138 IQ, 1470 SATs, almost never stumped by any who wants to be a millionaire questions. yet .. bottom half of HS class, barely graduating college, inability to get ahead in life. My parents thought that I was lazy - but I felt that I was working hard. No drug will make your ADD go away and get you to function as well as a regular person. However some of these drugs will make you function at your best and will reduce your symptoms. You may never measure up to the non-ADD types if you are looking at the same criteria, but compared to your performance off of the drug your productivity and happiness will both increase dramatically. Drugs or no - you will have good days and bad days. Most of these drugs take a full month to fully kick in and the change is almost unnoticeable at first. I have heard ADD described as like Garlic Breath - everyone else notices it but you. That is .. until you look back at the paragraph that you have just typed and say "what was the topic of this paragraph supposed to be.

My Dr. just suggested that I find out about this Strattera stuff and decide if I want to take it. I think that I will if it doesn’t give me insomnia. I currently take 400 mgs of Wellbutrin and 15 mgs of Ritalin. I prefer the Wellbutrin over any other add medication.

If you want a good laugh, check out the strattera website: http://www.strattera.com/1_4_adult_adhd/1_4_adult.jsp
When I read the description of ADD I started laughing out loud. It sounded like the website was insulting me. Other descriptions for ADD are in the book "Driven to Distraction" - it’s a good read. When I think of ADD I now think of what my Drill Instructor said while I was going through Officer Candidate School. He aptly described me as " uh, uh daggome friggin lost".

I think the key is to find a profession where the ADD isn't as much of a hindrance. That way you can minimize that feeling that you are always on thin ice at work and you wonder how long you can hold this job until you are canned.

I often have those days where I feel that I am like a dog chasing its tail and I often do reverse directions in mid stride.

Diet does play a role - I need meet fish and vegetables 3 times a day or I get "brain starved". Carbs, sweets, coffee and chocolate do make my symptoms worse.

Please let me know your thoughts on my comments.

Grape
I am so like you!! I was diagnosed at 33 after so many other things that did not ever add up. Brite but never getting anywhere. No matter what I did, no matter how hard I tried I never seemed to accomplish what I set out to do and felt lazy, never met others expectations or my own. I've been hesitant about starting Strattera and since reading all the posts have decided against it. I am on Adderal XR and have wonderful success so I really do not see the need to change a good thing unless it ever became a neccessity.

I HIGHLY suggest the book "Driven to Distraction" for anybody diagnosed as an adult, especially if you are unsure with the diagnoses - in other words - in denial.

Absolutely what you eat makes a large difference! Protein seems to be an extremely important requirement in my diet. If I do not eat a protein at EVERY meal you can forget it. And God forbid I eat cereal or a donut for breakfast my entire day is lost. But I do live on Diet Coke.

Just wanted to share.

------------------

I just had to reply ... I am ADDHD too.. I was diagnosed when I was 16 and went to a special boarding school in Florida where I went from being an F and I student to being an A honor roll student... When I was 10 my pediatrician put me on Ritilan.. it was too much for me.. and back then they did not know as much about ADD and consequently my actual diagnosis was not until 6 years later... Aa a adult at 40 years old... it has been very difficult.. I did attend college but did not graduate... At the time the assistance programs for LD or ADD where not as active as they are now.. I work as a receptionist and enjoy my job... yet I still feel as if parts of me are missing .. over the years I have been treated for depression with numerous different anti depressants.. they all had the same affect on.. TURNED ME INTO A ZOMBIE... recently my doctor tried me on a new drug called Lexipro.. same reaction zombie city... I mentioned to him about my ADD... and he still felt the antidrepressants would be more benifical... NO WAY... none of it worked... I really feel as if I could address my issues with perhaps either Ritalin the most standard treatment or one of the other drugs being mentioned .. it might help.. however the Strattera which originally i was so excited about since it was not a stimulant.. I think I have lost interest in.. I have read a lot of negative feedback regarding adult treatment with this particular drug... though it seems to work well with children... I just reallly do not know what to do...and my doctor who is conservative with medication.. seems not to want to use these other drugs.. any ideas.. aside from getting a new doctor.. :-)

Thanks for letting me ramble..
Honi

------------------
Honi

Well, everyone reacts differently to different drugs. I love Wellbutrin and don't mind using the Ritalin either. The Wellbutrin gives me no apparent side effects except for the fact if i skip a dose my driving perception is altered. It feels that nearby cars are swerving twards me and I flinch and even twitch.

It is interesting to see the differences in peoples brains. Having ADHD or having ADD with Depression does make us more different than most. I had a co-worker with ADHD. He is a supervisor at a overnight delivery service firm and he was great at it. He could do multiple things simultaneously and he could mentally keep track of where every driver was at any given time in our region. I did not have that gift however and was eventually terminated. I was more analytical. I made a outbound manning matrix showing when every driver returned from their route and assigning tasks to each as they arrived. My new boss took one look at my matrix and determined that I was not right for the job.

I tend to get absorbed in projects and hobbies - or my thoughts and have little or no awareness of my surroundings. I will also get overwhelmed with all of the information that I gather. I have trouble organizing and even more trouble prioritizing. Prioritizing involves decisions based on sound judgement.

I can remember obscure facts that I learned 20 years ago but I can't remember what I had for breakfast or what I did with my keys. And I can't remember names of people - at least not immediately - so I am lousy at introductions. The key is that I need to keep lists of every day activities or I will tend to get mentally lost or lose track of time.

I do tend to work better on Diet Coke. I think that it is the Phenylalanine in the nutrasweet that helps if it isn't the way the caffene is assimilated.

Hi,

I was diagnosed with ADD nine years ago as a sophomore in college. At the time, my doctor was giving my Cylert. I actually liked taking it, and it did help somewhat. Now, from what I heard the drug is considered dangerous and has been banned in Canada. I was aware of the possible liver problems while I was taking it, but I had regular blood tests and never worried about the side effects.

After college, I had a job that was very reactionary I did not feel I needed to take meds for ADD any longer. However, my current job requires me to be much more proactive. Recently I have been unable to motivate myself. I find that I will do anything to avoid doing my work.

I feel like I may need to get back on some form of medication. I like my job and I do not want to start a new career. I need to be able to successfully complete my day-to-day tasks. I heard about Stattera from my mother and am wondering if it's the answer for me. After reading this board, some of the side effects scare me. Does anyone have advice for getting back on some sort of program and what kinds of medications I should be looking to take?

Thanks!
Marc