Re: Medications/Side effects??

I've been taking AdderallXR (amphetamine) for about a year. It's made a huge difference for me. I'm more patient, less impulsive, less fidgety & I can finally focus/concentrate on ONE thing at a time (something I've always had trouble with). This med has benefitted me in more ways than I can count.

Like all meds though, there are side effects (some more bothersome than others). A negative side effect I've had with Adderall is unintended weight loss. I was already thin when I started taking it, but now I'm considered underweight (5'6" 103 lbs). I can't seem to gain weight on this drug no matter what/how much I eat. Also, stimulants can cause mood swings, irritability & depression (esp. when the drug wears off). At high doses or with chronic use there have been reports of a psychotic state indistinguishable from Schizophrenia... scary.

As far as non-stimulants go, the only drug I know of is Strattera. Although I've never taken Strattera, I've heard some pretty negative things about it. Everyone's different, but there seems to be a correlation with Strattera use & really bad sexual side effects (similar to anti-depressants). Stimulants, on the other hand, tend to increase libido, but can cause impotence in males.