Posted by Sulpicia on February 6, 2001, at 15:52:09
In reply to Ritalin-induced depression?, posted by Pam on February 6, 2001, at 14:25:20
> Has anyone heard of ritalin causing depression? I have recently been diagnosed as ADD by a new pdoc. He prescribed Ritalin. I have been taking 5mg. every 1 1/2 hrs. for a total of 40mg./day.( I would prefer to take Ritalin SR, but my insurance plan only covers for the regular, generic methylphenidate.) Initially, this seemed to help my ADD, but now (two weeks later) I find myself very depressed and unable to function. I have been on Prozac and Wellbutrin on and off for the past four years for depression. I take the Wellbutrin when the Prozac poops out. Right now, I am taking 40mgs. of Prozac, up from 20mg., once again due to poop out.
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> If the methlyphenidate is causing my depression, are there any other ADD medications I could try? Would Adderal have the same depressive effect?
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> Any advise would be greatly appreciated!Hi Pam -- I take adderall, along with tofranil for my ADD and depression and have not experienced any depression.
Is this a constant state or just when the ritalin wears off? I have heard of some folks who just can't take ritalin, and get a variety of unpleasant side effects, depression being among them.
A couple of ideas: try non-generic concerta, the time release form of ritalin. Increase and decrease the dose [w/doc's assent] and see if you notice a difference.
You might give adderall a try or dexedrine. Remember that getting the dose right takes time and patience.
The other possibility is that there are certain people who just can't take pstims. I hope you're not one of them.
Good luck,
S.
poster:Sulpicia
thread:53418
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010131/msgs/53427.html