Posted by Johnny B. Linux on March 23, 2006, at 20:34:00
In reply to Tolerance to Adderall or Ritalin?, posted by jonquiljo on March 23, 2006, at 17:24:41
> I have been concerned about taking adderall or ritalin - mainly beause I worry about developing tolerances, needing more and more - then finding that standard doses don't work any more.
>
> Anyone who has been taking these meds for years like to comment? Can you take them for long periods of time (months, years) and not have to deal too much with tolerance issues? If so, what are "stable" doses that tend not to require more and more?
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> I'm talking about these meds from an ADD standpoint and not depression. Thanks.
>
> Jon
Hi Jon, good question. The stimulants used for ADD/ADHD are safe, effective and have a good track record. Now, tolerance to Ritalin or Adderall can't be entirely avoided. I've heard of patients and their doctors making use of a drug holiday, switching to a different stimuant or class of medications to deal with tolerance issues. There are pros and cons to becoming tolerant to any medication. The pro is that you may become tolerant to annoying side-effects, such as nervousness or high blood pressure. The con is that you may become tolerant to the therapeutic effects. If you do indeed become tolerant, you and your doctor can take measures to deal with it.You always have the stimulating antidepressant Wellbutrin or the non-stimulant Strattera if you want to curtail the issue of tolerance altogether.
poster:Johnny B. Linux
thread:623794
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060322/msgs/623900.html