Methylphenidate for ADHD User Reviews (Page 2)

• Tog...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• August 27, 2020

"Since starting on Concerta, I have been able to effectively get my life together. I am no longer impulsive, hyper, inattentive, or anxious. The last two years have been the best I've ever experienced. I struggled with procrastination and mood issues prior to being medicated for ADHD. Past inaccurate diagnosis caused doctors to label my ADHD-I with a number of false mental health issues. The wrong medications caused a lot of damage in my personal life. Now, I have finally been able to get my life together. Concerta is a very good medication for those with ADHD/ADHD-I."

• Zig...
• April 20, 2013

"Concerta has made me more focused and things seem to be easier to understand for me. I am 36 years old and was diagnosed with ADHD. This is a wonderful medication and for me, life-changing. I now know I needed this medication for many, many years now. And so far no side effects, sleep better and still have my appetite. I have more energy and I don't procrastinate anymore when I need to do something, I just do it without procrastinating about it. Exercise is also easier, which is good because I am overweight and need to lose some weight. I seem to be able to interact with people a lot easier and now I can have a conversation with people without blurting out things before I forget what I want to say and having to pause in between sentences."

• nur...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 18, 2014

"My 4th grade son began taking Concerta 2 1/2 weeks ago. It has been the best decision I ever made. His teacher says he is a completely different child. His funny personality remains but he is on task, finishes all his homework in class, and actually tells other children to quiet down. I lamented for many, many months about whether or not to have him begin a stimulant. It is obvious that it was the right decision. I make sure he eats a hearty breakfast. He knows he needs to push himself to eat something at lunch and drink plenty of fluids. He did tell me he felt 'prickles in his head' for the first 2 days. His teacher reported he was a little tired for a couple of days as well. He says his mind is more clear and 'not so jumbled'. We're thrilled."

• Anonymous
• September 9, 2009

"My son is 10 years old. I suspected he had ADD when he was 6, and the teacher kept telling me he was spacing out in school, but he is also so smart. I decided maybe the work was just too easy, and he was bored. In 4th grade, I couldn't take the complaints (almost daily) and had him tested. He was diagnosed with ADD and given Concerta. I can only tell you that his math teacher sent me home a note on the day he started medication to ask where I got my new son from, she could not believe it. She said he even went in during his lunch break to catch up on some work. He lost his appetite for the first week or so, but regained it and hasn't had trouble sleeping at all. He is happier, his teachers are happier, and I am HAPPIER! Thank you, CONCERTA."

• Oak...
• September 8, 2015

"I'm actually an adult on the patch. I am 28, female. I've been trying to find the right stimulant with bearable side effects since I was in high school. Please excuse the lengthy review, I just know the search can be tough and long. I have depression, ADD, GA & SA, and OCD skin (cuticle) picking tendencies. It's been very hard finding a stimulant that didn't worsen my anxiety-related symptoms. I could tolerate 5mg Adderall XR, but my body burned through both the XR and IR in about 3 hours. Then I would crash for the rest of the day (depressed, irritable, anxious). Vyvanse gave me zero motivation and made me calm but in a weird way. For example, I didn't care or worry about anything... I didn't even want to talk to people. I would just want to sit there alone and stare at a wall or something. It was nice to be that relaxed but too weird. But the real problem was the crash! It was the most extreme of all the stimulants I've tried by far! I took it only twice and threw it out. I almost didn't try Daytrana patch because Ritalin was actually the first stimulant I tried, which was over 10 years ago, and I remember similar symptoms to that I had on Adderall. I ended up giving it a try with the logic that it might be smoother since it was for children, and I was also desperate since I'm working and studying for the GRE. I'm so happy I gave Daytrana a shot!! I'm telling you if you suffer from anxiety, can't tolerate the crashes, and metabolize the other stimulants too fast, you have got to try this one!! I've only been on it for a week, but I can't believe it! I leave it in for the whole 9 hours, and I never crash. In comparison to Adderall, it is still the best stimulant for getting you motivated. I have to motivate myself a little, but unlike Adderall, I can stay focused ALL day with Daytrana. I'm also less likely to do something 'stimulanty' like start reorganizing my closet for no reason, but I do get the necessary cleaning, errands, bills, etc., done effortlessly. And the best part is that it doubles as an antidepressant since, what I assume is the increased dopamine, stays in my system pretty much all day and night. The 'happiness' doesn't feel like a high, it feels more like an absence of depression. I don't have any more of the repetitive negative thoughts. The constant emotions of hopelessness, guilt, embarrassment, you name it, just aren't there anymore. There is still a mild degree of sadness I carry with me, but I have major depression so I feel like it's only normal and I can handle that! As far as the negative side effects: Like all the stimulants I've been on, I still have insomnia, loss of appetite, and increased urge to pick at my cuticles at night when it's wearing off. But there is not a 'crash,' no evenings being completely drained of energy, fits of irritation, major anxiety, or depression. Also, the patch is applied to your hip and I'm experiencing some muscle tension in my legs, which I think might be slowly subsiding. I'm drinking a lot of water and taking vitamins in precaution of cramps. Advice on taking the patch off: It's easier for me to take it off when it's wet. I do it in the shower/bath or rub it off with a warm washcloth. Good luck!"

• Mor...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 20, 2013

"This medicine is incredible. I've had ADD for about 20 years, as long as I've been alive, and college has exacerbated the condition, so my neurologist prescribed Ritalin to me. This starts to wear off after about 2.5-3.0 hours, but it works absolute miracles. The whole time before, whenever I tried to work, it was like I was seeing the world through warped glasses and my mind was just foggy, like it was full of ice and cotton, but now the entire world is beautifully, wonderfully clear! This is truly an amazing medicine, but be sure to follow your doctor's orders with it, as it can have side effects."

• Cor...
• June 10, 2015

"Ok, this is where I am after two weeks. I'm turning 54 one of these days, Managing Director of my company, and self-diagnosed with ADHD about a month ago. I matched ALL the criteria. Went to see a doctor and he confirmed my suspicions. I relayed my struggles with studies at University and he referred to me attaining two degrees as a 'miracle.' I cannot begin to explain how difficult studying was, not to mention having to sit through hours of lectures. There was no - and I stress - NO filter between my brain, mind, and my mouth. Anger, profanity, and impulse behavior was only curbed by my life-long ability to fall asleep anywhere, anytime. Imagine an alien being in charge for 53 years. It's all gone. Why did no one help me with this before?"

• Lea...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 17, 2023

"I have ADHD, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis. I have tried most ADHD medications, both stimulants and non-stimulants. I found that the side effects were outweighing the benefits. My psychologist recommended Jornay PM. I started on 40 mg. I was so surprised to wake up on day one feeling rested and motivated for the first time in 10 years. After one week, I was up to 80 mg. I have been on 80 mg for the last 3 months. I had a headache during the second week while I adjusted to the increase of 80 mg. My rollercoaster of mood swings, sleepless nights, zoning out, being paralyzed or frozen, and emotional imbalances has improved. I have had major life-changing improvements since switching to Jornay PM. I am so relieved to have found an ADHD medication that really works after 50 years. Thank you, Jornay PM."

• ele...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 13, 2019

"22, Male, ADD, Anxiety disorder. Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is amazing. However, there's a catch: it enhances focus but does not direct your focus towards a subject that you're not interested in. I experience extreme euphoria, confidence, and optimism for about 1 hour (it builds up gradually, peaking at the 2-hour mark with 10mg). If you use this daily, tolerance builds up quickly after every 2 weeks (for me). When I stop taking it, I feel depressed for days but it will wear off as 'naturally occurring chemicals' reach equilibrium again. I suggest cycling it according to your productive days: 3-4 days a week and the rest off (avoiding tolerance and dependence). It enhances your current focus, so start working/studying for 15-30 minutes THEN take it. I've researched the most irrelevant topics which excite me the most for hours, only to find that within 30 minutes the Ritalin's effects are going to wear off."

• Jac...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 18, 2019

"My 9-year-old son has struggled for years, in school and at home. Impulsive behavior, anger, inappropriateness. I always fear the worst and avoided medication for 2 years. It’s been one week since he has been on 18 mg Concerta, and it’s been a lifesaver. He enjoys school now, not getting in trouble, he’s so much better at home as well. No side effects so far, eating and sleeping no problem. So happy we chose this path. Hopefully self-esteem and relationships can be saved :)"

• Vin...
• September 17, 2014

"If you have ADHD, pills like Strattera (non-stimulant) do not seem to work. You do need a stimulant. Concerta is amazing medication. I used to be on it from 2nd grade all the way until 9th. Looking back now, at 21 years old, I see that after I stopped it in high school, my grades dropped. Just started taking the average adult dose of 36mgs and it has really helped me in class, although there isn't an insane change. MAKE SURE TO TAKE IT WITH A DECENT MEAL OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER. If you don't, you'll find yourself with an upset stomach for a lot of the day."

• ADH...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• October 13, 2013

"I'm 31 and diagnosed with ADHD for 23 years. When my parents started me on Ritalin in 3rd grade, their only regret was letting me struggle for so long. I was always being sent home from school for playing in the mud, walking out of class, etc. I was talkative and happy, but my grades were well below satisfactory. I had very few teachers encourage me, rather, I was written off as a disruption. My first year on medication was hard, I had no appetite and trouble sleeping. After about 6 months, all the side effects went away. I could eat and sleep with no problem. I have been on Adderall now for 17 years. I graduated college, have an amazing job - not sure where I would be if nobody saw the signs and helped."

• Kat...
• January 6, 2015

"My son is in 4th grade and just started taking Concerta two days ago. So far, so good! He is dealing with severe ADHD. He was a very angry child, and since he started taking it, the teachers have sent notes home saying how well he is doing! School is easier so far, which means a happier boy! He hugs me and kisses me, and we have had fewer fights about getting homework done. We are very pleased!"

• Van...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• January 23, 2014

"My son started on Concerta about a year ago. It has transformed his life. I don't like giving medicine, but I have tried absolutely everything else - swimming, brain gymnastics, etc. Nothing really helped. He is naturally bright but just couldn't concentrate - particularly when it came to classroom work and focusing on a project involving writing. The transformation has been incredible. He had an excellent school report in every area. His teachers are thrilled, he is confident and happy, and enjoys school. He doesn't take Concerta in the holidays or at weekends and manages fine going back on it on a Monday morning. Only one side effect which is a lack of appetite. We ensure he goes to school with a good breakfast, and then he has a huge meal when he gets home."

• Pri...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• August 9, 2019

"I'm a 47-year-old female and I was diagnosed with ADD and a few other illnesses after my only child was murdered. I am on 20mg three times a day. I have found that Ritalin works the best for me in staying focused and keeping my head together, not all over the place. It's not a 100% cure-all, but I can tell a difference for the good. The only bad experience I had was when I ran out and didn't have them for three days, it caused me to go through withdrawal. That wasn't a pleasant experience, so I make sure I fill them on time and take them like I'm supposed to."

• Meg...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 12, 2021

"I’m a female (I think ADHD affects us a little differently), and I was diagnosed 4 months ago at the age of 26. I always kind of knew I had ADHD, although I was always a good, quiet kid, so that bit didn't add up. I now take 15 mg of Ritalin in the morning and 10 mg in the afternoon. I haven’t noticed any “life-changing” things, although I am so much more talkative and confident, as if my social anxiety is gone. My head is also a lot quieter. I have energy to do things now, but this is all so exciting I end up doing the wrong things (finally buying new clothes instead of my uni work)."

• Lil...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 12, 2023

"Was diagnosed with ADHD (inattentive) & excessive daytime sleepiness at age 30 (cis woman) & was prescribed Concerta for it. Started out on 18mg as advised by my doctor since I had anxiety & they feared worsening it. But immediately noticed a huge improvement in focus as well as willingness to do tasks I originally avoided like a plague & feared all my life. It was like night & day, I sobbed that same day realizing this was that semblance of normalcy others experienced on a daily basis while being productive & getting things done. After being told all my life that I was either too lazy or easily distracted & rude, I now know it wasn't my fault. My anxiety even got better because that was the source of it. However, with the 16mg, the positive effects started to go away after a month, thus the bump to 27mg, and now currently 36mg, which is my sweet spot. It's been about 6 months & I would recommend giving it a try for adults! Remember it's not a 100% cure, you still need self-therapy/management. GL!"

• Ann...
• March 22, 2018

"I was diagnosed with severe ADHD - inattentive type, and Ritalin literally is the difference in me getting through my To-Do list or just wondering what in the world I have been doing all day. Over the years, I have run across multiple medical professionals who will not prescribe this medication. Like an idiot, I listened to them and tried other medications. ALL of these medications had worse side effects and did NOTHING to correct my ADHD. They tried all of the non-stimulant medications and Bupropion HCL - none worked and several had VERY bad side effects. Medical professionals who refuse to listen to their patients should lose their license to practice. You are messing with people's lives here, people! The worst side effects I had with Ritalin were appetite suppression and mild anxiety, specifically if I drank too much coffee with the medication. This is over a period of 15 years on the medication."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 3, 2019

"I'm a mid-fifties male that recently started taking Ritalin. I've been on it for about 3 months now and really like the changes. The ability to stay on task is amazing. I take the immediate release 2x per day (10mg/pill). It takes about 30 minutes for the effects to kick in, but it is subtle. Each dosage lasts about 4 hours. I take the first pill around 8:00 am and the second at 1:00 pm. I take it Monday - Friday, and sometimes on weekends, if I have a project I'd really like to get completed. At this point, I haven't experienced any noticeable side effects. Yes, it does kill your appetite during the 4-hour cycle, but it does return quickly thereafter. For anyone looking for the best vitamin/supplement for improved productivity due to ADHD, just go to your doctor and take something that's proven effective and regulated by the FDA."

• ajj...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• May 22, 2014

"I started Concerta when I was in 7th grade. I am now 14, and I started off with 36mg. Now I am on 54mg. At first, I had a big boost in my grades! I started getting A's! This year, I have been noticing in school that I have been more anxious, depressed, not hungry during the day, and a little bit socially awkward. I am trying to deal with my side effects. I am going to the doctor soon about Concerta. You are not alone."

• car...
• February 2, 2008

"My daughter just started taking Concerta for ADD about 3 weeks ago and she has made significant improvements. She is now able to stay on task and complete assignments, which she was having a hard time doing before. There has been no difference in her personality, which was a concern of mine. She also has developed a better sleeping pattern, whereas before she had a tendency to have insomnia."

• 29 ...
• April 15, 2018

"I grew up with severe panic attacks. When I was 19, up until the age of 27, I stayed in my room. I couldn't leave my house. I had/have severe anxiety and depression. Years went by and I lost hope. I didn't have a job, I was a loser. I took a mindfulness class and after each mindfulness tape, I noticed I was in extreme pain, more so than the other people sitting around me. It was then that I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I was prescribed Adderall and Vyvanse for my ADHD but they made me extremely tired. Currently, I am on Cymbalta, Concerta, and Remeron. With this combination, I began a full-time job. I have been employed for 7 months, and I would be lost without Concerta. If you're looking for a drug that is similar to Wellbutrin, Concerta is the answer. Do not give up hope. Never give up hope. Don't take 'no' for an answer, and if a doctor is diagnosing you incorrectly, leave and find a different doctor. There is a right combination of medication out there for you. Never give up!"

• Ric...
• May 5, 2009

"I love Ritalin. I have a wonderful peace that I never had before. I am 61 years old and have just started taking it for the last few weeks. I can actually concentrate now. I am not so fidgety. I wish I had this about 55 years ago. One thing I noticed, I am dreaming where I don't remember dreaming in years."

• Fel...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• June 12, 2013

"When I was about 13, the school psychologist who I was seeing for behavior problems suggested to my mother that I start taking Ritalin. I was hyperactive, could not focus, blurted things out, and was generally viewed as a weirdo by my peers. My mother refused to follow the psychologist's advice because she 'didn't want me on medicines'. The same diagnosis and suggested treatment followed the next year and the year after by the psychiatrist who I was referred to. Eventually, I dropped out of school, somehow managed to get my GED, and enroll in college. I decided a few years ago to see a doctor and he prescribed Concerta. I am now able to follow through on projects and not feel like a failure, frustrated all the time. It has really worked for me."

• Joh...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 20, 2020

"I am in my early thirties and very recently started drug trials for ADHD. After trying Vyvanse, which didn't work out, I moved to Concerta. On the lowest dose, I had concerns, as it seemed to make my ADHD symptoms worse. I became more irritable and more distracted. After a week, I moved the dose up to the next level and had a terrible day. Extremely irritable, so lethargic I could do almost nothing all day, difficult time sleeping... I had difficulty dealing with my children if they did the slightest thing wrong. Concerta is not for me, I will try something else."