Comparing Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine vs Methylphenidate

For ADHD I have been taking 20 mg of Adderrall once a day in the AM, for about 6 months now. I started out at 5 mg and have increased to 20mg. I am 36, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia about a year ago following what seemed like a million tests and lots of money later. My specialist put me on the drug after we talked about my issues of staying on task, memory, concentration, and inability to comprehend normal everyday activities and instructions. Looking back, I seem to think I have always had some sort if this "problem" but with this onset diagnosis, it has gotten a lot harder to focus. I feel it will only get worse over time. I was curious if anyone has ever taken this medication for this particular DX or can give any advice? Has it helped? Thanks

For ADHD Prescribed for ADD and excessive daytime sleepiness. Very good at helping me focus when I need it. It also works TOO well for my fatigue, I went from feeling like a narcoleptic to having insomnia. I had to cut back on my prescribed dose because it was too much. I take only 5mg when I need it. Even though this medication will wake you up, you absolutely must manage your time and get some quality sleep, because most side effects come from lack of sleep. Be careful with this as it can be habit forming and addictive. The key is to eat well and sleep well when on this medication.

For Depression The only disappointments I've had with my Concerta (methylphenidate extended release) are its high cost and its propensity to become ineffective after one to two years. Otherwise, this is an excellent drug that should be used more often for difficult depression. It's made me feel like a functional human being again.

For Depression DX was Major Depression at age 20 (now 40) I spent 20 years trying every med available. All of these drugs had side effects (lethargy, apathy, no sex drive, no pleasure, weight gain, sleep problems) none made a big improvement. Fast forward 20 years%u2026told a new doctor about main symptoms: oversleeping, hopelessness, social isolation, no interest in activities, emotional blunting, etc. He prescribed Ritalin I tried 10mg then went up to 20 mg and immediately noticed I was able to get out of bed early!!!! No lying around doing nothing, ruminating/wasting time all day. I became extremely motivated, Ritalin makes me feel just calm, motivated,positive and I sleep better in the evenings. I take 20mg Ritalin and 20mg Prozac.