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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by LightShifter on December 28, 2003, at 22:10:09
In reply to Strattera for Inattentive ADD ?, posted by Dreaman on December 23, 2003, at 23:31:50
I am an Inattentive type ADDer and have found low doses of Strattera (20 mg. once a day in AM) to work well with reducing anxiety, and providing a more positive social bias which helps social anxiety.
If you look up reboxetine or endronax, you will find this norepinephrine (noradrenalin) reupdake inhibitor (which is what Strattera is) has been used effectively for depression and anxiety in Europe for years. Go to www.Reboxetine.com and click on reboxetine for more info.
I find I get jittery on Ritalin and I also hate the "crash" when the drug starts to wear off. Has anyone found dexedrine to be any less anxiety producing? I've been considering adding just a small amount to add just a bit more "enthusiasm" to Strattera though I do find Strattera does help some for this as well.
...Dan
> Hello,
>
> I was wondering how all the Inattentive
> ADDers (meaning main symptoms are tiredness, brain fog, really bad concentration, maybe social shyness and inhibition) have done on Strattera. So far on this thread I have not read anything specifically about how well the strattera works for Inattentives. Sometimes I get really frustrated at how much attention the people with the hyperactive component get in the literature and books while inattentives are barely mentioned. My intuition is that Inattentives as apose to Hyperactives would have a big differences in their reactions to the strattera compared to the differences that are seen with traditional stimulants. I say this because strattera works almost exclusivly on Nuero-epinephrine (spelling ?) as apposed ritalin working on both dopamine and neuroepinephrine. So I am guessing that one ADD type or the other needs neuroepinephrine more than dopamine. Am I right or am I just dreaming this all up?
>
> Anyway I was on ritalin for about 2 years before I started getting tolerant of it. Now it barely works no matter what dosage I am on. Did this happen to anyone else? In the beginning it was really a miracle drug for me, not anymore so I am looking into strattera. What I really want to know is what are the cognitive effects of the strat ie focus, concentration how do they compare with stims? Also did strattera help anyone overcome shyness or social inhibitions.
>
> Any shared experiences would be great especially
> from inattentives!
>
Posted by Siraris on December 29, 2003, at 4:28:18
In reply to Re: Strattera for Inattentive ADD ?, posted by LightShifter on December 28, 2003, at 22:10:09
I tried taking Strattera right around when it was approved, and I honestly don't remember the effects, but I know it didn't work since I'm not on it. I definitely have found lately that my concentration is going to hell and I need an ADD drug again. I am DEFINITELY the inattentive ADD type... I get very tired during the day sometimes, I have a terrible time waking up in the morning and not feeling refreshed and concentration is real bad... I think it's causing me memory and learning problems.
I used to take ritilan and it worked at times, but caused me anxiety and to hyper-focus in how my body was working... same with adderall and concerta.
I found out 2 sessions ago (after starting to see my p-doc again) that strattera, in it's initial release, the doseage given by Lilly was wrong... as I've noticed in this thread, the one person who started with Strattera at 10 mg noticed great results, and this is the same thing my p-doc said 2 sessions ago. He said you need to start out with 10 mg a time, and find the right dose, and it could take up to 8 weeks to fully start working.
I am very excited to get back on this drug. Everyone seems to be saying how great it is, and how it helps with anxiety and depression. I think it is VERY important to point out that ANXIETY AND CONCENTRATION ARE ALMOST ONE IN THE SAME! Not many people realize this, but they go hand in hand. I just would like to get my concentration back, because it is definitely getting in the way of me storing information in short term/long term and recalling as well.
Keep up the reports!
Posted by Mid-Life Crisis on December 29, 2003, at 17:10:09
In reply to Strattera for Inattentive ADD ?, posted by Dreaman on December 23, 2003, at 23:31:50
> Hello,
>
> I was wondering how all the Inattentive
> ADDers (meaning main symptoms are tiredness, brain fog, really bad concentration, maybe social shyness and inhibition) have done on Strattera. So far on this thread I have not read anything specifically about how well the strattera works for Inattentives. Sometimes I get really frustrated at how much attention the people with the hyperactive component get in the literature and books while inattentives are barely mentioned. My intuition is that Inattentives as apose to Hyperactives would have a big differences in their reactions to the strattera compared to the differences that are seen with traditional stimulants. I say this because strattera works almost exclusivly on Nuero-epinephrine (spelling ?) as apposed ritalin working on both dopamine and neuroepinephrine. So I am guessing that one ADD type or the other needs neuroepinephrine more than dopamine. Am I right or am I just dreaming this all up?
>
> Anyway I was on ritalin for about 2 years before I started getting tolerant of it. Now it barely works no matter what dosage I am on. Did this happen to anyone else? In the beginning it was really a miracle drug for me, not anymore so I am looking into strattera. What I really want to know is what are the cognitive effects of the strat ie focus, concentration how do they compare with stims? Also did strattera help anyone overcome shyness or social inhibitions.
>
> Any shared experiences would be great especially
> from inattentives!
>
Dear Dreaman,
Most people who have ADD/ADHD have the combined type, that is BOTH inattentive and hyperactive, but at different times. I have both, and Strattera helps me with concentration and alertness, and mostly, allows me to make it through the day without being tired and spaced out. I'm 52 years old, and until Strattera, there was no remedy for me for this, though coffee helped.
My son is combined type, also, but, at 15, is much more physically hyperactive than I am. Strattera didn't seem to help him, though the highest he got was on 60 mg. His current ARNP does not believe Strattera helps with grades, so she has him on Lexapro, 10 mg. and Adderall XR, despite his angry mood when on it previously. (She believes the Lexapro will prevent him from becoming angry on the Adderall.) We'll see...
I remain a fan of Strattera, however. Hopefully it will help your inattentive symptoms as it does mine. I don't believe it is enough for those who are truly just hyperactive without any inattention (a very tiny minority, if there are any really like that!)
Posted by Dreaman on January 2, 2004, at 13:48:31
In reply to Straterra approval., posted by scoper on December 28, 2002, at 2:19:34
I was just wondering about how in previous posts people were saying to wait for about 6 weeks to evaluate how Strattera is working. Is the the 6th week when all the side effects go away or when the Strattera starts to increase its effectiveness, ie focus and concentration.
I barely have any bothersome side effects. The two I have noticed are dry skin and really dilated pupils. Friend have noticed the dilated pupils and thought I was on some kind of crazy drug. My eyes almost look totally black now! I thought this side effect would probably be pretty common because of neuroepinephrines effects on the sympathetic nervous system but havent heard anyone talk about it.
Back to the 6th week mark, so what happens? Side effects go away? increased effectiveness? or sideeffects go away so you can increase to an effective dose? I am at 20mg and was wondering wether to go up or just wait 6 weeks to see what happens.Any advice would be appreciated.
Posted by Palbella on January 2, 2004, at 14:38:58
In reply to Re: Strattera for Inattentive ADD ?, posted by Mid-Life Crisis on December 29, 2003, at 17:10:09
> > Hello,
> >
> > I was wondering how all the Inattentive
> > ADDers (meaning main symptoms are tiredness, brain fog, really bad concentration, maybe social shyness and inhibition) have done on Strattera. So far on this thread I have not read anything specifically about how well the strattera works for Inattentives. Sometimes I get really frustrated at how much attention the people with the hyperactive component get in the literature and books while inattentives are barely mentioned. My intuition is that Inattentives as apose to Hyperactives would have a big differences in their reactions to the strattera compared to the differences that are seen with traditional stimulants. I say this because strattera works almost exclusivly on Nuero-epinephrine (spelling ?) as apposed ritalin working on both dopamine and neuroepinephrine. So I am guessing that one ADD type or the other needs neuroepinephrine more than dopamine. Am I right or am I just dreaming this all up?
> >
> > Anyway I was on ritalin for about 2 years before I started getting tolerant of it. Now it barely works no matter what dosage I am on. Did this happen to anyone else? In the beginning it was really a miracle drug for me, not anymore so I am looking into strattera. What I really want to know is what are the cognitive effects of the strat ie focus, concentration how do they compare with stims? Also did strattera help anyone overcome shyness or social inhibitions.
> >
> > Any shared experiences would be great especially
> > from inattentives!
> >
>
>
> Dear Dreaman,
> Most people who have ADD/ADHD have the combined type, that is BOTH inattentive and hyperactive, but at different times. I have both, and Strattera helps me with concentration and alertness, and mostly, allows me to make it through the day without being tired and spaced out. I'm 52 years old, and until Strattera, there was no remedy for me for this, though coffee helped.
> My son is combined type, also, but, at 15, is much more physically hyperactive than I am. Strattera didn't seem to help him, though the highest he got was on 60 mg. His current ARNP does not believe Strattera helps with grades, so she has him on Lexapro, 10 mg. and Adderall XR, despite his angry mood when on it previously. (She believes the Lexapro will prevent him from becoming angry on the Adderall.) We'll see...
> I remain a fan of Strattera, however. Hopefully it will help your inattentive symptoms as it does mine. I don't believe it is enough for those who are truly just hyperactive without any inattention (a very tiny minority, if there are any really like that!)
>My son was on Strattera for 3 full months without any positive benefits. They started him slowly, increased him to 80 milligrams which would be the dosage he would have taken except for the problem of the angry mood swings started again ,just like the Adderall made him become. That's the whole reason i took him to PDoc. He was placed on Zoloft for his depression which has worked wonders for him but i just took him off of Strattera. It did nothing for him so here we go back to trying a different drug.Ritalin Time released this time. He is the inattentive type of ADD. I think from my experience with my son and the drugs we have tried....inattentive need the stimulent and the hyper should do well on Strattera. I wish my son had the results i was hopeful for but that was not the case. Good Luck to all those who have recently started on this drug. We gave it a shot and tried it for 3 months which 6 to 8 weeks is the time frame to see whether it works for you or not. Happy New Year to All !
Posted by MamaB on January 3, 2004, at 7:18:51
In reply to Re: Strattera for Inattentive ADD ? » Mid-Life Crisis, posted by Palbella on January 2, 2004, at 14:38:58
Hi y'all
Quick review. I began Strattera a little over four months ago and am now on 80mgm/day. It seems from these posts and other things I have read and heard that Strattera works better for adults than kids. I like it as it addresses my inattentavness and easy distractability; however as I have said before, do not compare it to CNS stimulants. If you do try and make the comparison, Strattera will come across as not working -- It is a "softer" result and one must be patient and also work at some "self coaching" not depending simply on the medication. This is just my opinion. Mama
> > > Hello,
> > >
> > > I was wondering how all the Inattentive
> > > ADDers (meaning main symptoms are tiredness, brain fog, really bad concentration, maybe social shyness and inhibition) have done on Strattera. So far on this thread I have not read anything specifically about how well the strattera works for Inattentives. Sometimes I get really frustrated at how much attention the people with the hyperactive component get in the literature and books while inattentives are barely mentioned. My intuition is that Inattentives as apose to Hyperactives would have a big differences in their reactions to the strattera compared to the differences that are seen with traditional stimulants. I say this because strattera works almost exclusivly on Nuero-epinephrine (spelling ?) as apposed ritalin working on both dopamine and neuroepinephrine. So I am guessing that one ADD type or the other needs neuroepinephrine more than dopamine. Am I right or am I just dreaming this all up?
> > >
> > > Anyway I was on ritalin for about 2 years before I started getting tolerant of it. Now it barely works no matter what dosage I am on. Did this happen to anyone else? In the beginning it was really a miracle drug for me, not anymore so I am looking into strattera. What I really want to know is what are the cognitive effects of the strat ie focus, concentration how do they compare with stims? Also did strattera help anyone overcome shyness or social inhibitions.
> > >
> > > Any shared experiences would be great especially
> > > from inattentives!
> > >
> >
> >
> > Dear Dreaman,
> > Most people who have ADD/ADHD have the combined type, that is BOTH inattentive and hyperactive, but at different times. I have both, and Strattera helps me with concentration and alertness, and mostly, allows me to make it through the day without being tired and spaced out. I'm 52 years old, and until Strattera, there was no remedy for me for this, though coffee helped.
> > My son is combined type, also, but, at 15, is much more physically hyperactive than I am. Strattera didn't seem to help him, though the highest he got was on 60 mg. His current ARNP does not believe Strattera helps with grades, so she has him on Lexapro, 10 mg. and Adderall XR, despite his angry mood when on it previously. (She believes the Lexapro will prevent him from becoming angry on the Adderall.) We'll see...
> > I remain a fan of Strattera, however. Hopefully it will help your inattentive symptoms as it does mine. I don't believe it is enough for those who are truly just hyperactive without any inattention (a very tiny minority, if there are any really like that!)
> >
>
> My son was on Strattera for 3 full months without any positive benefits. They started him slowly, increased him to 80 milligrams which would be the dosage he would have taken except for the problem of the angry mood swings started again ,just like the Adderall made him become. That's the whole reason i took him to PDoc. He was placed on Zoloft for his depression which has worked wonders for him but i just took him off of Strattera. It did nothing for him so here we go back to trying a different drug.Ritalin Time released this time. He is the inattentive type of ADD. I think from my experience with my son and the drugs we have tried....inattentive need the stimulent and the hyper should do well on Strattera. I wish my son had the results i was hopeful for but that was not the case. Good Luck to all those who have recently started on this drug. We gave it a shot and tried it for 3 months which 6 to 8 weeks is the time frame to see whether it works for you or not. Happy New Year to All !
Posted by joe smith2 on January 11, 2004, at 11:45:31
In reply to Re: Straterra - patience involved » jrbecker, posted by zenclear on January 13, 2003, at 19:21:27
hello all,
I just started taking straterra. I have bi-polar disorder, depression/anxiety and I tend to obsess over my thoughts to much. I am on 8 mg of gabitril and I just started taking straterra. Im not sure if this will help my complsive thoughts. I really dont have terrible adhd, so Im not sure if it will work. Also, why are there sexual side effects to this medicine. My pdoc said it shouldnt effect my desire for sex, but I feel like it has. Any info is appreciated.
Posted by Mimi on January 11, 2004, at 14:08:41
In reply to Re: Straterra - , posted by joe smith2 on January 11, 2004, at 11:45:31
> hello all,
> I just started taking straterra. I have bi-polar disorder, depression/anxiety and I tend to obsess over my thoughts to much. I am on 8 mg of gabitril and I just started taking straterra. Im not sure if this will help my complsive thoughts. I really dont have terrible adhd, so Im not sure if it will work. Also, why are there sexual side effects to this medicine. My pdoc said it shouldnt effect my desire for sex, but I feel like it has. Any info is appreciated.
Yes, Strattera put a damper on my sex drive. Take as little as possible as I think it is a good med.
Posted by joe smith2 on January 12, 2004, at 8:37:12
In reply to Re: Straterra - » joe smith2, posted by Mimi on January 11, 2004, at 14:08:41
Did the sexual side effects go away with time, or was this a problem for as long as you are on the meds. Also, I know this is precribed for ADHD, but will it help my compulsive thoughts. Thanks again.
Posted by Mimi on January 12, 2004, at 8:52:07
In reply to Re: Straterra -, posted by joe smith2 on January 12, 2004, at 8:37:12
> Did the sexual side effects go away with time, or was this a problem for as long as you are on the meds. Also, I know this is precribed for ADHD, but will it help my compulsive thoughts. Thanks again.
No, the sexual side effects do not go away. Strattera does not help compulsive thoughts. Try Buspar for that.
Mimi
>
Posted by LightShifter on January 12, 2004, at 14:50:36
In reply to Re: Straterra - » joe smith2, posted by Mimi on January 12, 2004, at 8:52:07
> > Did the sexual side effects go away with time, or was this a problem for as long as you are on the meds. Also, I know this is precribed for ADHD, but will it help my compulsive thoughts. Thanks again.
>
> No, the sexual side effects do not go away. Strattera does not help compulsive thoughts. Try Buspar for that.
>
> Mimi
> >
>
>I feel it is specifically important to understand that Strattera has sexual effects on men that it cannot have on women.
The norepinephrine reuptake affects mens ability to both urinate and acheive erectile functionality specifically because it affects the prostarte function as well as the ability of the blood and seamen to flowe correctly.
For instance, seamen can be seen as white stuff that comes out with the urine which indicates that seamen is not "backing up" the way it should normally. This in and of itself will reduce sexual desire as there is not so much of a need to release what is "backed up". Also, the blood flow into the penis that causes erection seems to be "shutdown" to a great extent which complicates the issue further - even if men do get horney psychologically, their "equipment" may not function effectively enough to acheive orgasm...not to mention how this affects a man psychologically!
LAstly the urinary difficulties are like BPH and are fairly well resolved with Flowmax(r) (Tamsulosin)....
I agree that the Strattera dosage should be kept small. I found that after about a month and a half on 10mg. of Strattera that sexually things seem to be better than they were when I first started taking it. I'm not sure if the .2 mg. of flowmax that I take every other day for the urinary BPH type condition that results helps the sexual issues as well but things do seem to be better.
Regarding the compulsive thoughts, I feel a certian "contentment" under Strattera that allows my mind not to "race" and my anxiety levels seem to be greatly reduced. Friends have also remarked how I don't "shake" anymore - at least not as much. I had tremors most of my life (no doubt due to my high anxiety levels) which Strattera seems to help a lot. MAny people seem to stop this drug because I feel the starting dosages are too high - expecially because of the way the higher dosages affect mens urinary flow... If you keep at a low dose - say 10 mg or so - I have found that it helps greatly with anxiety and allows one to "focus" much better because the body does not have that anxious feeling going on that makes one want to "keep busy" so one can avoid the "racey" feeling inside... IT calms me in this way in ways Ritalin does not seem to be able to.
...Dan
Posted by joe smith2 on January 12, 2004, at 15:25:32
In reply to Re: Straterra -, posted by LightShifter on January 12, 2004, at 14:50:36
Thanks for your post. I started off on 40mg of Strattera. Probably is way to high a dose to start with. I'm still indecisive if the positives of this med will outweigh the negatives. I do tend to have very racy thoughts, and since I do get depressed and just broke up with a girl, sometimes these racy thoughts could be overwhelming. I also lost 25 lbs due to depression in the last six months due to depression/anxiety, and I know that the strattera isnt going to help me get my appetite back. Someone from the las post recomended Buspar. Does anyone have any positive experiences on the topic. Im only 25 andhave already been on every SSRI possible, none of which I could handle, also been on Zyprexa, xanax and a slew of other meds. I am currently just taking the Gabitril (8mg AM) and just started with the Strattera, but Im not sure if Im going down the right path. Any info is good info, thanks again,
> > > Did the sexual side effects go away with time, or was this a problem for as long as you are on the meds. Also, I know this is precribed for ADHD, but will it help my compulsive thoughts. Thanks again.
> >
> > No, the sexual side effects do not go away. Strattera does not help compulsive thoughts. Try Buspar for that.
> >
> > Mimi
> > >
> >
> >
>
> I feel it is specifically important to understand that Strattera has sexual effects on men that it cannot have on women.
>
> The norepinephrine reuptake affects mens ability to both urinate and acheive erectile functionality specifically because it affects the prostarte function as well as the ability of the blood and seamen to flowe correctly.
>
> For instance, seamen can be seen as white stuff that comes out with the urine which indicates that seamen is not "backing up" the way it should normally. This in and of itself will reduce sexual desire as there is not so much of a need to release what is "backed up". Also, the blood flow into the penis that causes erection seems to be "shutdown" to a great extent which complicates the issue further - even if men do get horney psychologically, their "equipment" may not function effectively enough to acheive orgasm...not to mention how this affects a man psychologically!
>
> LAstly the urinary difficulties are like BPH and are fairly well resolved with Flowmax(r) (Tamsulosin)....
>
> I agree that the Strattera dosage should be kept small. I found that after about a month and a half on 10mg. of Strattera that sexually things seem to be better than they were when I first started taking it. I'm not sure if the .2 mg. of flowmax that I take every other day for the urinary BPH type condition that results helps the sexual issues as well but things do seem to be better.
>
> Regarding the compulsive thoughts, I feel a certian "contentment" under Strattera that allows my mind not to "race" and my anxiety levels seem to be greatly reduced. Friends have also remarked how I don't "shake" anymore - at least not as much. I had tremors most of my life (no doubt due to my high anxiety levels) which Strattera seems to help a lot. MAny people seem to stop this drug because I feel the starting dosages are too high - expecially because of the way the higher dosages affect mens urinary flow... If you keep at a low dose - say 10 mg or so - I have found that it helps greatly with anxiety and allows one to "focus" much better because the body does not have that anxious feeling going on that makes one want to "keep busy" so one can avoid the "racey" feeling inside... IT calms me in this way in ways Ritalin does not seem to be able to.
>
> ...Dan
>
>
Posted by joe smith2 on January 12, 2004, at 16:11:15
In reply to Re: strattera WITHDRAWL?, posted by Mid- Life Crisis on November 30, 2003, at 9:20:25
one more ?.
I am a 25 year old male, I was wondering if the sexual side effects will go away with time, ans also will my appetite eventually return to normal. I also was hoping that this med will help my racing thoughts.
Thanks
Brian> Narnet, I am just curious...why are you trying to get off the Strattera?? Is it not working anymore??
> As to the "hangover" effect, perhaps you can help this with drinking coffee until the Strattera side effects go away. (I'm on 75 mg. of Strattera per day but STILL like to drink tons of coffee.) I hope you get rid of this symptom completely.
Posted by Laurie20023 on January 13, 2004, at 8:46:35
In reply to Re: strattera WITHDRAWL?, posted by joe smith2 on January 12, 2004, at 16:11:15
Hi there, it is my first time visiting this site and I am sending this because about a month ago my son was diagnosed with a combination of Bipolar/ADHD and was put on three medications, one is Risperdal, Depakote and the third was Metadate, the Risperdal and Depakote works great but he had to be taked off the Metadate because he was "Zombie" like. His doctor wants to put him on Straterra and I am wondering if that will help him. My son is a good kid but he has a real problem with constantly talking, his talking affects his grades in school because instead of concentrating on his work his mind just doesnt stop thinking of things to say, that can range from yesterday or 5 months ago. I want the right medication to help him think and do better in school. His father has been Bipolar since he was a child and is a real "weird" sort of guy, I dont want my son to act like him. Any advice will help me. Thanks !
Posted by jcbikermom on January 13, 2004, at 15:51:37
In reply to Re: strattera WITHDRAWL?, posted by Laurie20023 on January 13, 2004, at 8:46:35
My son is ADHD, 11 and weighs 90 lbs. He has taken Ritalin, Adderall (the worst side effects), and Concerta (worked the best, but got stomach pains). The dr. is now putting him on Strattera starting at 18mg then doubling that in 1 week. Is that too high a dose to start on?
Posted by Lazarus on January 13, 2004, at 16:42:09
In reply to Re: Straterra - , posted by joe smith2 on January 11, 2004, at 11:45:31
I take 9 mg Strattera daily and find that it does not help with racing and obsessive thoughts. I take Zyprexa, lithium and Lamictal for that.
Lazarus
Posted by joe smith2 on January 13, 2004, at 16:47:09
In reply to Re: Straterra - , posted by Lazarus on January 13, 2004, at 16:42:09
If you dont mind me asking, what do you take the strattera for. I started on 40mg to try and help control my Obsessive thoughts. I am also on Gabitril. Do you think that 40mg is too high a starting dose. Also, if you are a male, do you find that the Strattera has negative sexual side effects,(and if so, do they go away with time).
Thanks again> I take 9 mg Strattera daily and find that it does not help with racing and obsessive thoughts. I take Zyprexa, lithium and Lamictal for that.
>
> Lazarus
>
Posted by Kemet on January 14, 2004, at 14:18:25
In reply to Re: Strattera -does it wear off?, posted by loolot on November 11, 2003, at 13:48:13
I have been taking Ritalin for several years.
It has been a great help to my ADD and depression
and helps me fight otherwise constant fatigue. However, it does not address all my challenges with focus and attention which seem to be getting worse with age. I have started taking Strattera (60mg) which has worked well. I am concerned that I know need to take 3 meds (Cylexa-for depression, and Ritalin and Stattera for ADD).
I am considering discontinuing the Ritalin but
am concerned with fatigue. I read in some of the other messages that Strattera makes some individuals drowsey and that taking it at night can help this. Does anyone have any input on discontinuing Ritalin for Strattera. I know I will have to test it for myself to see what works best for me but I thought I would do some homework on it first.
Posted by Mimi on January 14, 2004, at 14:28:09
In reply to Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only, posted by Kemet on January 14, 2004, at 14:18:25
> I have been taking Ritalin for several years.
> It has been a great help to my ADD and depression
> and helps me fight otherwise constant fatigue. However, it does not address all my challenges with focus and attention which seem to be getting worse with age. I have started taking Strattera (60mg) which has worked well. I am concerned that I know need to take 3 meds (Cylexa-for depression, and Ritalin and Stattera for ADD).
> I am considering discontinuing the Ritalin but
> am concerned with fatigue. I read in some of the other messages that Strattera makes some individuals drowsey and that taking it at night can help this. Does anyone have any input on discontinuing Ritalin for Strattera. I know I will have to test it for myself to see what works best for me but I thought I would do some homework on it first.
Kemet,I did take Ritalin for PTSD symptoms and for activation purposes (I have the fatigue problem), but it caused me to lose too much weight.
Now I take Strattera and feel much better. I'm activated but still have an appetite. I only take 25mg. in the a.m. 50mg. ruined me: I got very sick and very very tired.
Mimi
Posted by LightShifter on January 14, 2004, at 20:13:13
In reply to Re: Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only » Kemet, posted by Mimi on January 14, 2004, at 14:28:09
Over and over again I hear of people complaining about Strattera when they take 40 mg or more per day - even though this is the "suggested" adult dosage.... This stuff is much more potent than they believe it is - at least for many of us.
I always recommend starting low and working up. It seems for most other drugs doctors seem to follow this practice but I guess as Lilly has 40 mg. starter packs for adults, the doctors presume it must be ok to start there.... even though the capsules come in much smaller doses (of 10 & 18 mg. I think).
I believe if more people started at 10 mg and slowly worked their way up only if they needed to a lot less negative side-effects and resulting discontinuances of Strattera would happen.
> >
I have been taking Ritalin for several years.
> > It has been a great help to my ADD and depression
> > and helps me fight otherwise constant fatigue. However, it does not address all my challenges with focus and attention which seem to be getting worse with age. I have started taking Strattera (60mg) which has worked well. I am concerned that I know need to take 3 meds (Cylexa-for depression, and Ritalin and Stattera for ADD).
>
> > I am considering discontinuing the Ritalin but
> > am concerned with fatigue. I read in some of the other messages that Strattera makes some individuals drowsey and that taking it at night can help this. Does anyone have any input on discontinuing Ritalin for Strattera. I know I will have to test it for myself to see what works best for me but I thought I would do some homework on it first.
>
>
> Kemet,
>
> I did take Ritalin for PTSD symptoms and for activation purposes (I have the fatigue problem), but it caused me to lose too much weight.
>
> Now I take Strattera and feel much better. I'm activated but still have an appetite. I only take 25mg. in the a.m. 50mg. ruined me: I got very sick and very very tired.
>
> Mimi
>
Posted by joe smith2 on January 14, 2004, at 20:48:45
In reply to Re: Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only, posted by LightShifter on January 14, 2004, at 20:13:13
Hey Lightsaber,
I started on strattera on 40 mg. I have been experiencing a few side effects such as being a little disconnected when around other people. I am yet to see the full sexual side effects but when do these usually start to take effect. Also, I am worried that I will lose my appetite. I have been on it for 6 days. Am I in for a rough couple of weeks or has the worst passed.
Thanks,
Joe
> Over and over again I hear of people complaining about Strattera when they take 40 mg or more per day - even though this is the "suggested" adult dosage.... This stuff is much more potent than they believe it is - at least for many of us.
>
> I always recommend starting low and working up. It seems for most other drugs doctors seem to follow this practice but I guess as Lilly has 40 mg. starter packs for adults, the doctors presume it must be ok to start there.... even though the capsules come in much smaller doses (of 10 & 18 mg. I think).
>
> I believe if more people started at 10 mg and slowly worked their way up only if they needed to a lot less negative side-effects and resulting discontinuances of Strattera would happen.
>
>
> > >
>
>
> I have been taking Ritalin for several years.
> > > It has been a great help to my ADD and depression
> > > and helps me fight otherwise constant fatigue. However, it does not address all my challenges with focus and attention which seem to be getting worse with age. I have started taking Strattera (60mg) which has worked well. I am concerned that I know need to take 3 meds (Cylexa-for depression, and Ritalin and Stattera for ADD).
> >
> > > I am considering discontinuing the Ritalin but
> > > am concerned with fatigue. I read in some of the other messages that Strattera makes some individuals drowsey and that taking it at night can help this. Does anyone have any input on discontinuing Ritalin for Strattera. I know I will have to test it for myself to see what works best for me but I thought I would do some homework on it first.
> >
> >
> > Kemet,
> >
> > I did take Ritalin for PTSD symptoms and for activation purposes (I have the fatigue problem), but it caused me to lose too much weight.
> >
> > Now I take Strattera and feel much better. I'm activated but still have an appetite. I only take 25mg. in the a.m. 50mg. ruined me: I got very sick and very very tired.
> >
> > Mimi
> >
>
>
Posted by LightShifter on January 14, 2004, at 23:05:08
In reply to Re: Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only, posted by joe smith2 on January 14, 2004, at 20:48:45
You would have noticed the sexual side-effects by now I think joe... I noticed them right away. You are probably going to be ok if you have not had them by now.
Regarding feeling "disconnected" around people, I have the opposite of this...my anxiety levels around people have been greatly reduced.... I'm not quite sure what you mean by the term "diconnected" though.
I reduced my dosage in half and it seemed to work better. I just split the capsule into 2 capsule doses. You might want to see if this reduces any "disconnection" problems you may be having around people. For me, 1/2 cap has really helped a lot in the reduction of anxiety and I feel a lot more comfortable with myself around people.
...Dan/LightShifter
> Hey Lightsaber,
> I started on strattera on 40 mg. I have been experiencing a few side effects such as being a little disconnected when around other people. I am yet to see the full sexual side effects but when do these usually start to take effect. Also, I am worried that I will lose my appetite. I have been on it for 6 days. Am I in for a rough couple of weeks or has the worst passed.
> Thanks,
> Joe
>
>
> > Over and over again I hear of people complaining about Strattera when they take 40 mg or more per day - even though this is the "suggested" adult dosage.... This stuff is much more potent than they believe it is - at least for many of us.
> >
> > I always recommend starting low and working up. It seems for most other drugs doctors seem to follow this practice but I guess as Lilly has 40 mg. starter packs for adults, the doctors presume it must be ok to start there.... even though the capsules come in much smaller doses (of 10 & 18 mg. I think).
> >
> > I believe if more people started at 10 mg and slowly worked their way up only if they needed to a lot less negative side-effects and resulting discontinuances of Strattera would happen.
> >
> >
> > > >
> >
> >
> > I have been taking Ritalin for several years.
> > > > It has been a great help to my ADD and depression
> > > > and helps me fight otherwise constant fatigue. However, it does not address all my challenges with focus and attention which seem to be getting worse with age. I have started taking Strattera (60mg) which has worked well. I am concerned that I know need to take 3 meds (Cylexa-for depression, and Ritalin and Stattera for ADD).
> > >
> > > > I am considering discontinuing the Ritalin but
> > > > am concerned with fatigue. I read in some of the other messages that Strattera makes some individuals drowsey and that taking it at night can help this. Does anyone have any input on discontinuing Ritalin for Strattera. I know I will have to test it for myself to see what works best for me but I thought I would do some homework on it first.
> > >
> > >
> > > Kemet,
> > >
> > > I did take Ritalin for PTSD symptoms and for activation purposes (I have the fatigue problem), but it caused me to lose too much weight.
> > >
> > > Now I take Strattera and feel much better. I'm activated but still have an appetite. I only take 25mg. in the a.m. 50mg. ruined me: I got very sick and very very tired.
> > >
> > > Mimi
> > >
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by Viridis on January 14, 2004, at 23:26:54
In reply to Re: Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only, posted by LightShifter on January 14, 2004, at 20:13:13
There's also a 25 mg starter pack -- that was great for me. The higher doses stopped working and had weird side effects. I quit Strattera, but may ask my pdoc for a 25 mg prescription to see if I can recapture the positive mood and concentration effects that this med initially produced.
This is a promising drug, but definitely one to go slowly with if you want to avoid major side effects.
Posted by Siraris on January 15, 2004, at 1:11:20
In reply to Re: Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only, posted by LightShifter on January 14, 2004, at 23:05:08
Been taking Strattera for 2 weeks, tapering up 10 mg a week. Only side effect I have noticed is reduced eating, some constipation, and increased heart rate, which I stop noticing after about 2 days of raising the dose. Oh and dry mouth!
I don't think I have any sexual side effects... I'm going to wait til I get to a higher dose before I judge if it's really worth it, but the side effects are supposed to go away very quickly.
Posted by Laurie20023 on January 15, 2004, at 7:56:19
In reply to Strattera and Ritalin or Strattera only, posted by Kemet on January 14, 2004, at 14:18:25
Nobody said anything about the other two medications that I mentioned, has anyone else ever taken Depakote or Risperdal?
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