Posted by Shawn. T. on November 10, 2002, at 5:40:28
In reply to What's it like to take an ADD med?, posted by cybercafe on November 8, 2002, at 16:33:37
If you have bipolar II, you will react much differently to stimulants than someone with ADHD only. They cause (hypo)manic episodes in many cases and can worsen the course of the disorder. The danger is greater in children, and most of the studies performed haven't involved adults. The issue of giving stimulants to adults with ADHD and comorbid bipolar disorder hasn't really been addressed. You should be especially cautious if you are a rapid cycler. If you decide to try a stimulant anyway, make sure that you're taking an effective mood stabilizer beforehand and stop taking it immediately if you start to have manic symptoms. Stimulants could worsen your anxiety, so beware of that issue as well. They will probably help with depression, however. In my personal experience, Ritalin makes me hypomanic and adderall doesn't seem to do much at all (note that I don't have comorbid ADHD).
Shawn
poster:Shawn. T.
thread:126985
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021108/msgs/127110.html