Adhd is it normal to try several different medications?

[freckles20]

I would really appreciate thoughts or advice re. trying different medications for adhd please.

I was only recently diagnosed. Started Elvanse (vyvanse) about 3 weeks ago- 5 days on 20mg, and the rest of the time on 30mg.

I think I’ve noticed a positive difference- although no two days are the same and procrastination and focus are still an issue.

I’ve struggled with a few headaches, a couple of which have floored me, lasted overnight and made me sick. I’m now trying to take care about drinking enough, and eating regularly- and I’m hopeful that might help with the headaches. I feel like my eyesight might be suffering a bit too, which is a bit strange.

I have a review on 6th January, and I’m undecided about Elvanse. I’m tempted to ask to try a different stimulant, just to see how it compares to this one- but I’m not sure if this is the ‘done thing’ , they aren’t sweets in a shop…..

The main disadvantage that I can see about trying a few medications is that I have to pay a lot of money for each review. So it could get expensive. But then getting the best one for me feels important.

Is it normal to try several types before making a decision?

I don't have ADHD, but Ds has, and DD is in the process of being diagnosed. For DS, he started with methylphenidate (Concerta) which worked for a while and then didn't. After a lot of reading and researching, he's now on a combination of Intuniv and Elvanse, which is reasonably effective.

Asfaik Elvanse seems to be the 'go to' option for ADHD, but it's not a one size fits all scenario. It's quite normal to have to try some options. Good luck!

Sorry Elvanse is go to option for ADULT Adhd

@KittytheHare thank you. That's really helpful.

Yes it’s normal.

20mg is a tiny dose and NICE recommend starting on 30mg and going up in 10/20 mg at a time. Most people respond to 50mg.

I started on 30mg 14 hour release about 9 weeks ago. It only lasted for 5 hours at a time. After 4 weeks I moved to 50mg, which works great. After 8 weeks I barley had any negative effects of having ADHD despite going through a very stressful time which would normally send my emotions haywire.

I had my dosage changed for free then a review appointment a few weeks later. It might be worth looking around for a new partitioner if you think you might need a long process of trial and error.

@HMG107 thank you very much. That's really helpful. This is all so new to me. I know everything must be guided by a medical professional but it is really helpful to hear other people's experiences.

I didn't realise that 30mg was still a v low dose. So maybe I have to decide whether to try increasing the dose before trying something else....

I am not clear when the 30mg wears off fir me. It is not very obvious. I think maybe that it has also been a bit of a tricky time to assess the benefits and how long it is lasting- as the festive period is not like my day-to-day life- my work becomes very quiet for a few weeks, but I'm dashing about after DS and looking after family etc..

It seems like the only way to discuss and review meds (other than sending an emergency Email) via my provider is to book a follow up zoom which is £270 .

I just emailed mine about the dosage and then he wrote to my GP (free of charge to up it). We then moved my scheduled review back a few weeks, so in total only I've paid for two appointments - my assessment, then review.

I'd send you his details but he's now closed his book as he's so busy.

Could your GP titrate the dose? I spoke to mine a year ago and then GP at the time told me to get a private prescription then they'd move the dosage/change drugs via their practice. I got a different GP when I finally had the prescription and they advised any changes had to come from my consultant but its worth a try.

Here's the NICE guidelines - www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87

For me at 30mg, the best way to describe it was like falling off a cliff at lunchtime. My emotions spiked, I had to bounce to regulate and couldn't do anything productive. Trying to concentrate on my 2 year olds needs was hellish.

I agree 30mg seems low - DS has always been on 50mg.