Thoughts on ADHD medicine for college students?

1. 81

   GmaGoldieposted 12 years ago

   Thoughts on ADHD medicine for college students?
   
   I have heard conflicting stories on these meds. My first inclination is ADHD meds are over used. There was a story that these meds were being used as "smart drugs" in colleges.
   
   Some say they are addictive, some say there are side affects but the whole focus has been positive. What is the real story. What would you want for your own children? How to guide a parent?

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2. 41

   H P Roychoudhuryposted 12 years ago

   You have correctly pointed out one of the vital symptoms of adolescent disorder “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)” and the effects of curing medicines in particular for college students. I am not a Doctor I can’t say whether these meds are addictive or not. But in general from the point of basic science, what we learnt as taught by Sir Isaac Newton that every action has an opposite action. Any medicine imposed in a body system it would bring a change in the normal body function. That change may be comparatively good or bad. It is noticed ADHD develops particularly in the adolescent period. It is mostly thought of development disorder that may be due to food deficiency or over activity besides other factors. My personal view is against the use of medicine. I do believe over body is sufficient enough to produce every medicines for every disease of our body. It is necessary to nourish the body with proper nutrient. And to control over mind in over activity or any other mental agony, the cycles of life should pass through a strict discipline right from morning till sleep. A regular healthy habit makes the body and mind free from anxiety and worry. Excuse me as I think I have written in excess.

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3. 85

   hinazilleposted 12 years ago

   Hey! This is a very pertinent question. Being a pharmacist, I have worked with ADHD patients to achieve the best regimen for them to be able to focus properly whilst going about their daily chores & also in times when they need to be able to maintain awareness and concentration (like for example when they have exams).
   
   I always make it a policy to offer alternative therapies to these students especially as the alternative remedies are natural - hence they have minimal (if any) side effects.
   
   Gingko Biloba can help improve memory and taking it in combination with ginseng can boost your concentration levels & help you maintain awareness for longer. So in response to your question, although I am a registered, qualified pharmacist, I would still opt for alternative options first and foremost and leave these meds for last case scenario treatment...

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4. 60

   amsozaposted 12 years ago

   I lived with ADHD, predominantly Inattentive Type and was not diagnosed until I was in my late 40's.  I had thought for a long time that I was ADHD, or more appropriately, ADD.  I made it through college and graduate school and was about to enroll in a program to become a school administrator.  I decided that I did not need to continue struggling in school.  It was hard to concentrate, focus, and be organized.  I was frustrated by my need to read the same paragraph over and over.  A psychiatrist prescribed medication for me and the improvement was immediate.  I wish I could report that all of the symptoms have disappeared but I have seen a great increase in my ability to focus, concentrate, problem solve and remain organized.  As a foster parent for teenagers, I saw a great improvement in those with ADHD who a competent doctor placed on medications.  The kids all reported positive effects on their academic achievement and behaviors; as did their teachers. 
   Medication was the right choice for me.  There is medical evidence to support, that ADD and ADHD have a physiological basis.  Imaging shows the ADHD brain functions differently than the brain without ADHD.  While it manifests in behavior, the neurological basis is evidence enough for me to support the use of medications.
   Finally, it is very important to find a psychiatrist who will help find the right medication at the correct dose.

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5. 81

   GmaGoldieposted 12 years ago

   Wow! What a breadth of knowledge. This is very helpful. Thank you all very much! I know have a much better understanding and a more balance viewpoint.

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