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Avatar universal

atteral?

am sure I spelled it wrong.  neuro wrote me prescriptions for this for fatigue.

anyone have any experience with it before I take the plunge?  Provigil isn't working but even if I double up the dose and take 2 provigils a day, that's $190 a month.....whew.
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Avatar universal
ty.  funny, I've been on CIB for over a year, after my MS gave me stomach spasms........I truly agree it is wonderful stuff.

I think I will try the new drug, just to see, because I have to do something.  He's worried that I am just not getting proper rest and has also given me a sleeping pill for at night to try and regulate when I sleep!

Thanks everyone!
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Avatar universal
Hi Sarah!

Yes, that would be Adderall, which is most commonly prescribed for ADHD, narcolepsy (a sleeping disorder) and in some cases chronic fatigue, if the other meds don't work as you mentioned. It's amphetamine, but it's also combined with dextroamphetamine, and they're both central nervous system stimulants that effect chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.

It is known for speed on the street and yes, it can be easily abused because it doesn't work the same a week to 10 days after you've taken it, and some people feel the need to take a second pill or third pill to get the same effect. From what I'm told, though, a week to 10 days later is how you are supposed to feel, because in the beginning it will most likely feel stronger. I'm no longer on the medication, but that is exactly how it worked for me.

If you have high anxiety, any heart problems such as irregular rhythms, high blood pressure, or any kind of tics in your neck or head, it is advised not to take it. It will definitely make things worse. I did find it helpful but I have a heart condition and somebody made an "oopsy" and I never should have been on it to begin with.

For me, the side effects the first month we're lack of appetite, lack of sleep (Its strong!), which developed into high anxiety and I felt a little crazy because I was only getting three hours a night sleep where before I was sleeping my life away. Heck, I didn't even have a life because all I did was sleep! So, I totally understand where you're coming from, believe me!

I say give it a shot, if you don't have any of those other physical problems that I mentioned. Be safe! You must have a very severe case of chronic fatigue as I do to have your doctor prescribe adderall for you, and I wish you the best of luck with it.

Almost forgot, if you realize you're not getting enough nutrition in you, try some Carnation Instant Breakfast because its high in vitamins and minerals and you don't want to get weaker or become malnutritioned on top of MS. Been there, done that, no fun! Most doctors recommend the Carnation Instant Breakfast for people who have problems eating and you'll really feel a difference in your body because of those vitamins and minerals that you were lacking before.

Hope that helps! :)
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Avatar universal
I have been taking Adderall for about 6 mths for fatigue.

It seems to work well for me, I take 20mg aday.

I tried nuvigil & provigil and they did nothing for me.

From what I understand it is prescribed for ADHD but if you don't have that it does the opposite & gives you energy. It's been a life saver for me.
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Avatar universal
yes, ess, that's the one I meant, its a cog fog spelling day for me!

am about ready to try anything, I can't spend all day every day on the couch plus sleep too!  I've tried Amantadine with no success.  Provigil worked but $$$ just was horrible on my SS budget!

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Avatar universal
Yes, I'd imagine that's what Sarah meant. Adderall works well for many kids with ADHD, but it isn't something I'd ever take, personally. It's amphethamine-like, or maybe a real amphetamine, and can cause addiction or dependence. Withdrawal can be bad. Sometimes we need these things, but I would try anything else, or go without, first.

Sarah, have you tried Amantadine? PastorDan's thread mentions this, and Shoshin describes it. I did try it and it had zilch effect. So did Provigil, for that matter. Yet since we're all so different what doesn't work for one can do wonders for the next person. At least Amantadine is very cheap, so it wouldn't be a big investment to give it a try.

ess

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382218 tn?1341181487
No personal experience but do you mean Adderall? I've worked with foster kids who were prescribed it for ADHD.
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