Do I have ADD/ADHD. Can I get Adderall?

[DD523568]

Keep in mind, this is sort of long...but I would appreciate it if I could get some opinions or have help with it

Well I have had slight problems in school. They havent actually been too apparent until I have actually thought about it.
I am a 16 year old student in high school.  Last quarter I had a 3.95 grade avg, but I still believe I might be suffering from ADD/ADHD. I have tried to make this as educated as possible so that I can be at the same level as most of the readers on here most likely are (keep in mind, I dont talk like this on a regular basis.)

Some problems that I have are:
-When I'm reading, my mind tends to wander on other unrelated subects frequently.  I often (more than normal person should, at least) have to reread a paragraph or a sentence because I read it, but dont think about what I'm reading.
-I have to study a lot for tests (because I also tend to wander off and my study sessions are longer than they really should be, its not really a problem of comprehending the material.)
-In class, I sometimes have a hard time trying to focus (usually in my classes that attention is required in. Such as my honors chemistry class, or my honors algebra 2 class (it really isnt all my classes because my other classes do not require much or any attention at all).  I really dont pay too much attention in that class, which is why I dont understand the material all too well most of the time)
-When people talk to me I sometimes (but not WAY too often, tune them out)
-I'm not sure if its linked with ADD, but I always tend to procrastinate. When I do study for tests, it is always the day of the test or even the period before.  When I have to write essays or do projects, i always do it the night before.  It isnt sometimes, its always.

Another problem I experience is constant movement.  When I'm in class, or at home or anywhere where I have to sit or stand for any 5 minute+ period of time, (sit, not lay down on the couch or anything...I thought it was necesarry to point that out) I am in constant motion.  I tend to shake my knees, tap on my desk or move in general.
When I talk on the phone (I'm not sure if this is ADD or ADHD) I just tend to walk around, I CANNOT sit or stay still.

Recently I have tried Adderall.  To be specific:on monday and wednesday (I tried both days to see if the results would be the same).  My friend who is prescribed with Adderall gave them to be both days.  He is in all honors classes and gets good grades.  Previously, I thought that since I recieve good grades (I am at least decently intelligent) It would be impossible to have ADD/ADHD (but my friend is what first made me start to wonder).
Well the Adderall was a personal success.  On the days that I took them, paying attention has really been no problem at all.  I didnt suffer from constant motion and it actually helped me understand many of my school things better.  It has even helped me to be more motivated in school (example: I participate more in class, and when I have free time I do my work little a by little instead of awiting until last minute).
Well I want to try to set up a doctors appointment and see if I can get Adderall perscribed to me.  Although I'm not too sure if I should bring a specific medicine up or not...as the doctor may think I just want it because of it is a popular misused drug these days.  I just dont want to waste my time trying something else while this clearly works.  Also, as the new quarter for school is comming up, I want to see if it would bring an increase in my classes I'm having trouble in. (I'm positive it will, but I havent used it more than twice so I dont truly know).

So what are some thoughts?.  Do I had ADD/ADHD? I figured this place would be one that knows best. Should I attempt to get it prescribed? Should I ask my doctor for Adderall?..or would that not be a good idea.

I know of medical symptoms as I have read on them before trying.  I am healthy and am not alergic to anything as far as i know (and not this because I obviously already tried).

Thanks all for your help :)

[benny2248]

ok.. so I'm also 16 and a junior in high school. I have ADD and anxiety and the Adderall for the ADD definately helps. When/if I don't take my meds I have all of the symptoms you mentioned above. I do however think that the procrastinating is just becuase you're a teenager. :) (we all do it) definately talk with your parents, doctor, teachers, etc. They'll be able to help you. I'm an honors student too and it's been really hard but the medicine definatley helps. Do not take any perscription medicine from others. It could have turned out really bad. Good luck

[Momtoteenboys]

You make a good case for ADHD, so maybe you shoud see a psychiatrist or a doctor who specializes in ADHD.  If you can manage with meds, I would try that first though.  Talk to your parents.

Also, I would not recommend trying Adderall or ADHD meds from another.  They are controlled substances.  In addition to the risk of taking them without medical approval, its illegal.  They are not ibuprofen or tylenol.