Updated on: November 27th, 2019 ~
Getting the ADHD medication that you need isn’t always a straightforward process in the United States.
But, with some persistence, just about anyone with ADHD can get prescribed Vyvanse or any other ADHD medication that they might need.
Disclaimer: The following steps are the exact steps that I personally used to acquire a Vyvanse prescription in order to treat my ADHD symptoms. I’m not a doctor. Just a real person with ADHD. None of this should be considered medical advice.
Here are the 5 steps that may help you get the ADHD medication that you need…
Contents
Step 1. Know the reasons why you want Vyvanse
I wanted to try a good ADHD medication because I had tried just about everything else in order to treat my ADHD symptoms.
I lived an extremely clean lifestyle (food and diet-wise), drank green smoothies every day, exercised, meditated, and even avoided harmful ingredients.
And after doing everything that I possibly could to treat my ADHD symptoms on my own…I finally resorted to getting a Vyvanse prescription.
Luckily, Vyvanse was definitely a game-changer. It worked amazingly well for me while I used it. I ended up taking Vyvanse for about one year (in 2016) and had one of the best years of my life.
So, if you’ve done everything that you possibly can to improve your ADHD symptoms, and you still feel like there’s room for improvement in your life, then you could be the perfect candidate for Vyvanse or a similar ADHD medication.
Just make sure that you’re aware of the reasons why you want Vyvanse or a similar ADHD medication.
Knowing the specific reasons why you want to use ADHD medication will help you appear more responsible, thoughtful and trustworthy in the eyes of your doctor.
Keep in mind that doctors are extremely careful about prescribing ADHD medication nowadays. They want to make sure that there’s a good reason to prescribe you ADHD medication. So just be genuine, know the underlying reasons why you want ADHD medication, and you’ll most likely do great.
Step 2. Find a doctor in your area who prescribes ADHD medication
The most convenient way to get a prescription for ADHD medication is to chat with a general practitioner (GP) who regularly prescribes ADHD medication.
You can usually find these doctors near college campuses.
There are also general practitioners who prescribe ADHD medication in just about every major U.S. city.
And, there’s even the chance that your current physician will prescribe you ADHD medication.
This is the most convenient way to get a prescription for ADHD medication. But, it isn’t exactly the most reliable method. Because, not all general practitioners will prescribe ADHD medication. In fact, most probably won’t.
So, the most reliable way to get prescribed ADHD medication involves three steps:
- Visit a psychologist who specializes in diagnosing people with ADHD
- Be formally diagnosed with ADHD
- Acquire a referral to see a psychiatrist
That’s the most reliable way to acquire ADHD medication.
The general idea here is that a psychologist can diagnose you with ADHD, and then refer you to a psychiatrist who has the authority to prescribe ADHD medication.
While this process might seem a little bit extensive, that’s actually a good thing. Because, spending some quality time with a psychologist or psychiatrist is an excellent way to get familiar with the intricacies of ADHD.
Psychiatrists are also knowledgeable about determining the exact dose of ADHD medication that works best for your body. So, it may be well worth your time if you decide to go this route.
Step 3. Communicate the reasons why you want to use Vyvanse (or any other ADHD medication that you like)
This is the part of the process where it helps to know the exact reasons why you want to use a specific ADHD medication like Vyvanse, or any other medication that you like.
Vyvanse is the best ADHD medication in my opinion. Adderall XR is the second best ADHD medication. Concerta is quite good as well.
I’m personally not a fan of too many other ADHD medication options at this time. But, my opinion could always change later on, especially as more ADHD medications come to market.
And most importantly, it will be entirely between you and your doctor to determine the ADHD medication that works best for you.
There is one thing to be concerned about, though. There’s a chance that your doctor might try to push some garbage ADHD medication on you. And, this is the point where you might have to gently push back:
Doctor, I’ve done my research, and believe that Vyvanse is currently the best medication available for treating ADHD symptoms. I’d like to start with a LOW dose, just to see how my body responds to an ADHD medication like Vyvanse. Does that sound reasonable to you?
As long as you can clearly communicate the genuine reasons why you want to use a particular high-quality ADHD medication to improve your ADHD symptoms, you’ll almost certainly be able to acquire the ADHD medication that you need.
Yes, you may need to have an extensive conversation with your doctor before you get a good ADHD medication. But, it will be well worth having an open conversation with your doctor, and being honest about what you actually hope to achieve by using ADHD medication.
Step 4. Get your prescription, and start building a relationship with your doctor
Once you’ve found a great doctor who you trust, and you’ve acquired a prescription for ADHD medication, then most of the hard work will be done.
By this point, I recommend that you start building a solid relationship with your doctor (or doctors), because your relationship will only get better as time goes on.
Good doctors are really, really amazing people to know. Especially doctors who are empathetic towards people with ADHD. You should always want access to the best medical care that you can possibly receive. Your health is always the #1 priority in life. Without your health, you can’t really do much else in life.
So, make sure to build relationships as you go about getting your prescription for ADHD medication.
Your doctor genuinely wants to help you. So, treat them like a trusted friend – and they’ll be even more willing to help you with your ADHD symptoms.
Step 5. Take advantage of Vyvanse coupons and related mobile apps
Vyvanse coupons are a godsend for people who want to use the medication.
Because, let’s face it:
Vyvanse can be pretty expensive. And, there currently aren’t any generic forms of Vyvanse available on the market.
Luckily, Shire (the company that owns Vyvanse) offers some great discounts to people who are new to using Vyvanse.
Just check out the article that I linked to above, and take a look at some of the Vyvanse coupons that you have access to.
One of my favorite things to do is snag the official Vyvanse coupon that’s offered directly from Shire, and then use the GoodRx app to find a cheap pharmacy in the area.
The official Vyvanse coupon from Shire will be sent to your e-mail address after you sign up.
The GoodRx app can show you the specific pharmacies in your local area with the cheapest Vyvanse prices.
With both of these discounts, you should be able to get a pretty good deal on your Vyvanse prescription. Of course, your health insurance also plays a major role in the price that you pay for your medication.
But, if worst comes to worst, Shire also offers patient services for those with limited financial resources (I’ve 100% been there before). There’s no shame in requesting help if you need it. In some cases, Shire can provide you with entirely free Vyvanse prescriptions.
Side note: Alternatively, you might also consider asking your doctor about getting prescribed a generic version of Adderall. Because, Adderall generics are relatively cheap whether you have health insurance or not. This is another excellent option for people who need to treat their ADHD symptoms, but have little financial means to do so.
Conclusion
Hopefully this brief guide helps you get prescribed the ADHD medication that best serves you and your life.
I used Vyvanse for about one year, and I don’t regret it one bit.
In fact, the ADHD Boss website was practically non-existent until I started treating my ADHD symptoms with medication.
At the time, taking Vyvanse was the kick in the butt that I needed to get my ADHD symptoms, finances, relationships and my entire life in order.
So, even though I don’t take ADHD medication at this stage of my life, I can still recommend using a light dose of high-quality ADHD medication like Vyvanse because of the honest benefits that it had on my life.
I experienced the magic of ADHD medication first hand, enjoyed its benefits, and then moved on.
And, I know that ADHD medication can work just as well for your life too. Enjoy it while you still can.
I love in TN. I was forced to get off cause I take opiates for chronic pain. I been take both medication at one time. I would take them separate or I kept off my pain meds until I really need it. The two years ago I can’t do hardly by paper work. I got on diet doctors meds I lost weiggt noticed I was getting my paperwork done. So I’ll told the nurse who had a good relationship with she start prescribing and I went to see a psychologist that evaluated me. I already had a oil valuation by guess they couldn’t find it. I have waited a d medicines when I was in my 30s because I didn’t believe in it plus I was very active and Hyper it cause my heart good to fast. Until I got hit with chronic fatigue in my middle 40s and I asked to get on it so I could get things done. It works I don’t need high doses. So it’s back on it my dose wasn’t Hannah but something was going on. I knew that I starting to function. But my nurse left the office and I was left with the main doctor and he didn’t believe in it. I’m trying to be honest I still take some of my pain medication but I’m fine with ADD and pain I’m not addicted to either one. But I told him coffee was in tricking I’ve been struggling all my life. I know one thing when I get my paperwork done and able to focus my life is a bed of roses. It’s just beautiful just to be able to have your thinking start connecting and your focus to be a focus of other people around you. And you want to learn more and you want to do other things that you didn’t do before. Especially if you live in a state with a barometric pressure goes up and down. So I met a new psychiatrist and I was honest and she said they won’t prescribe me ADD stimulants Prescription. They try push me on antidepressants which I don’t need. So I told him I’m not focusing so they want to prescribe Strattera and I’m not sure about this medication I think I tried the past I don’t remember tricking. And my friend complains too much about my ADD and I text her I know I try to control it but it’s difficult. I am 53 I’m healthier I’m thinner my cholesterol is good my hope is pretty good pretty. But I do have some chronic migraine not as much as I used to I have. I have a migraine kit controller, I’m am nurse to give myself my own shots. I’m able to manage a lot of things by myself. I have no addictive behavior and if I know I think I am I will get help I have friends and good connections. I wish I could get back in the school and learn some more things or learn online. Cuz that’s what I miss the most is learning Neurologically on know my brain is not there’s too much interruptions I grew up all my life thinking that I was dumb basically a have add. But I was always hyper about time period but not over hyper. I got angry at the main Kyrie said you prescribe for children under 18 and that is actually bad for them then it is for adults because they’re developing. Seems like a market store where children in school that doesn’t seem fair at all. What about the adults. I’m going to try to find another psychiatry’s I’m going to go in Nashville with a population’s bigger and the stigma about it is probably less. I probably not going to tell them that I’m on pain medication for I could get back on my ADD meds. Is coffee don’t work after a while if you need tips to help me I greatly appreciate it.
Thank you for your comment Delphinia. Yes, getting help in a bigger city like Nashville is probably a really good idea. It seems like physicians in bigger cities are better prepared for dealing with ADHD, since they visit with a much more diverse range of patients.
I recommend being honest with your doctor about your current medications though, because being honest will probably help you develop a better long-term relationship with her.
I found this because of course I’m going to see a psychiatrist soon and hoping to get Vyvanse. It honestly does seem like the best one since Adderall can have the crash and I think it looks responsible I’m asking for something that really can’t be overly abused. I’m already on Strattera so I passed using the crap medications. I don’t want Concerta or Ritalin either, there just seems to be more risky side effects as far as stimulants go with them. Here’s to hoping and standing my ground I get what I want.
Yeah I definitely agree that Vyvanse is usually seen as the most “responsible” choice for ADHD medication. It’s probably the most well-reviewed and all-around best ADHD medication available. Good luck!
Im trying to get on it myself. I had a friend who gave me 12 40mg pills. The first one i felt speedy and do not like that feeling. The next 10 takin sparingly we’re pretty amazing re: my focus. So im on the mission. I guess what im asking is….. if once im taking it daily…. can i hope to actually feel normal but focused… or it will it always feel like im hyper focused, which still beets chronic adhd i guess
Just as an FYI who also finds this site for similar reasons: different medications work differently with different individuals’ chemistry. In my case, Vyvanse caused a major crash (extreme grumpiness and hunger), even at lower does whereas Adderall does not, even at higher doses. Adderall also just works better for me (and I am on Adderall XR, so like Vyvanse, there is little risk of abuse). I just wanted to put that out there. My Pdoc says that most of her patients respond very well to Vyvanse, but there are a handful of us that do better with Adderall.
Hi I currently live near Concord NC. I have suffered with ADHD for years and years now but I am new to the state and can not find out what kind of doctor I should go to in order for them to help me . What kind of doctor do you see? Just a regular family physician?
Yes just a regular physician is fine Venesa. Chat with one!
Hi my name is Jen and I am struggling with adult ADHD. .. I am looking for a doctor who would give me a chance to start me out on Adderall or Ritalin …I went to a phyciatrist today and he said no bc they are cracking down on controlled meds … I don’t think that’s fair bc I wouldn’t abuse them I would only take them as perscribed … Really bummed me out bc I’ve been having major symptoms do any of y’all have any suggestions
Thanks for the comment Jen!
Do you have an official ADHD diagnosis?
Not all doctors will prescribe ADHD medication.
But, if you present yourself exactly as you’ve just described (someone who genuinely needs help with ADHD symptoms) then I think you’ll eventually come across a doctor who will help you out.
Hi all. My name is Ginny and I’ve struggled with ADHD and dyslexia through out my life. I was medicated on and off as a child and through college. I’ve been on Ritalin , adderal, and Vyvanse ( vyvanse the most helpful in my opinion). I truly believe the ADHD medicine has had a very benificial impact on all facets of my life. However I got off the medication when I was bumped off my parents insurance… I saw it as an opportunity to evaluate the state of my cognitive abilities naturally. I’ve been off medication for four years now. I eat a very clean nutritious diet, and I excercise at least 4 days a week. My symptoms are still very present.
I’ve started a new job that I have worked so hard for and am so proud of! I’ve been with my organization for a bout 8 months now and I’m struggling with the symptoms of ADHD more than ever. I often feel frustrated and ashamed of my condition… I’m supposed to be some kind of scientist. My brain is stuck in a low gear and it takes absolute brute force to focus on my work. I don’t want to let my team down or myself down. What makes it more difficult is that my partner in life firmly believes that ADHD medication is unessassary. In fact he looks down on it.
I have an appointment next week to see a general practice doctor that has prescribe one of my colleagues with ADHD medication… it has helped him tremendously. I feel very hopeful but have some feelings of trepidation towards what my partner will think if I’m fortunate enough to get back on the medication but I need help.
Thanks for listening!
Keep doing good work you ADHD bosses!
Thank you for the thoughtful comment Ginny. I think that ADHD medication is a personal decision, and your partner should respect that you’re the person who has to live with your brain and body, not him. It sounds like your partner is being unnecessarily judgmental, or perhaps just uninformed (which is a common issue surrounding ADHD medication).
Either way, you sound like an incredibly sharp woman, and I think you’ll find your way in no time.
I was diagnosed with adhd from a Psych but she wont give me stimulant to help me. I am very disappointed. Dont know where to turn to. Im 63 years old & my daughter has adhd shes 44 yrs old. No one will listen to me. Help
I would recommend that you keep chatting with doctors Denise. I truly hope you find the help you need. You will get there.
Hello, Just curious as to why you no longer take Vvanese. What are you doing to help your ADHD.
Hi Sue.
I had a great run with Vyvanse. But, I’m a writer and need to stay creative.
I feel like Vyvanse helps with my analytical side, but not my creativity.
So it’s just a matter of Vyvanse no longer being a fit for my lifestyle.
I’m mainly just eating healthy, sleeping really well, exercising, meditating, and practicing stoicism / visualization. Oh and I take lots of vitamins and caffeine too.
Hopefully this helps you. Remember to do what works best for you.
(What works for me might not work for you, etc.)
Hey stefan,
Im glad im not the only person who thinks vyvanse ruins creativity. Im a music producer and love vyvanse but felt like they were ruining creativity and quit taking them because of it! It was awesome for everything else though.
Thank you so much for your comment Derek. Totally agree with you! Best of luck to you with music production man. You definitely need your creativity there.
Hello my name is Keith and I’m 50 years old. I recently moved from Michigan to California. In Michigan my family doctor prescribed me Adderall because I am a motorcycle mechanic and I was having a hard time staying focused on the job when working on multiple jobs. I have a hard time listening to people and tend to wonder? I recently got health insurance and I’m going through the same thing in California as in Michigan. I’ve never felt better than I did while taking Adderall. I took 45mg of not the xr? I tried 60mg which was a 30mg pill in the morning and one in the afternoon. But when I took one 30mg pill in the morning and a half of a 30 in the afternoon that worked better for me because I slept better at night. My question is what type of doctor should I go to ? I don’t have money to bounce around trying to find the right doctor. But I know that medicine worked for me?
Thank you for your time
Keith
Hi Keith. Thanks a lot for leaving your comment. It’s entirely up to you to decide which doctor you’d like to go to. It’s really a personal decision. Either option should work. I wish you the best of luck.
Hello my name is destynee and i am a single mother at 21 years old. I really struggle with sleeping at night because my mind is racing full of things. I just forgot what i was about to type next honestly….. um im just typing as it comes out of my mouth but um anyways…. i struggle with anxiety and deppression, which im on effexor for that, seems to be working but i have my days. When i was in highschool my senior year, my friend seen me shaking and just looking around during a test (i struggled bad in school) could not stay focused. I still cant. She had given me one of her vyvanse 60mg and i swear i ended up passing that test with flying colors. I had such a great rest of the day. I came home and did my chores as my mother asked of me and i went to bed just fine! I will remember that day like it was yesterday. I felt like my day was so well planned out and organized. Now that im older and all my symptoms have gotten worse i really think vyvanse will help me be a more organized person and a better mother for my son because i am just so exhausted all the time even IF i get a full 8 hours. Alot of times i cannot go to sleep at all. I need some advice please 🙁
Talk to your doctor about Vyvanse Destynee. It sounds like it could help in your situation!
I decided to do 2 separate posts here in reply to Keith in Michigan’s post – one is TL; DR (this one, sort of?) and the other is still quite…not. 😊
If you don’t have a personal referral to a provider who you KNOW actively treats more than the here-and-there case of ADD / ADHD, I would recommend seeking out more of a specialist.
I would encourage anyone who can’t seem to find a decent and receptive provider locally, especially if they are in the adult stage of getting a proper assessment and diagnosis, to open up your search to your entire state or states “next door”. I found a provider I was cool with a couple hours away, but was ready to hit surrounding states if need be.
If you’re paying out-of-pocket and really think you need to be prescribed, think about seeing a psychiatrist straight away. Some facilities have you see a therapist who can’t prescribe meds who will then have to refer you out to a psych. This matters because if you’re paying out of pocket or have high copays or deductible, you’re just adding to your costs.
You can also see a neurologist who can also prescribe meds straight away, but I came across more than one case where some neuros perform expensive sleep studies as part of their assessments that may or may not be covered by insurance. So ask about that.
Double check if the facility is a federally-qualified community mental health center. They may be limited in the meds they will or can prescribe. Namely controlled Schedule 2 type medications. If you want the full range of options available to you if a certain med doesn’t pan out, go elsewhere.
Look for legit online reviews that offer up some kind of insightful detail (not 5 stars with no words or just “He/She is great, highly recommend!” which tells you nothing about anything).
Look at how much info is offered on websites. Do they truly SPECIALIZE or is ADD / ADHD just part of a long laundry list of other conditions they treat/list? Are you comfortable with that?
Have a prepared set of questions when you call or email for clarification if clear info is not offered on the website or online, but the reviews look decent.
Do they respond quickly and clearly with a level of education and empathy? Do they make sure you understand what’s involved, including full costs (initial and follow-up) or additional referrals so there are no surprises? You may still need (or want) to see a therapist as part of the treatment plan.
Should go without saying, but are they customer / patient-focused when they are speaking with you? I had a few rush me off the phone like I was being a bother if I asked extra questions or did not offer to find out details and call me back – they just kinda guessed or said that they doc would provide full details during the appointment (what?).
Does the doc have any books or published articles? Do they speak at conferences? This is a plus (in my book).
Take the advice offered on medication / supplement alternatives on this site to get you through until you finally land an appointment with someone you feel good about. If they can’t book you for months or have a waiting list, ask to be put on a cancellation list if they have one. I got bumped up a month because of that.
While I waited for my appt day, I ordered and took Nordic Naturals Omega Extra w/ Vitamin D, Rhodiola, Lyposomal Vit-C packets, Resveratol, magnesium drops and spray, a decent multi, and 3 packets of powdered (L-Tyrosine, Phenalylaline (sp??), and L-Tryptophan (which went into some power smoothies). Overkill, but I was desperate.
I gotta tell you, be mindful of the powders. In a couple of weeks, I developed a weird, visible, shaking tic underneath my right eye. Sometimes it would come out of nowhere, other times when I was fully stressed. I figured it had to be something I was taking. I eliminated the powders 1st and the tic went away. I kept up with the rest of the regimen.
A nice extra I found: Vit-C packets and fish oil have my skin looking great and I feel they gave me an overall improved sense of physical well-being. However, I did not experience a marked improvement with focus, etc., even with the Rhodiola. I think I will be taking the fish oil + C forever…although I need to make sure about the Vit-C as I got prescribed Vyvanse. I read somewhere it affects its effectiveness.
As recommended in other comments, ask about drug company patient assistant programs for any expensive meds your doc may recommend. Don’t wait for the doc to offer. You need to be proactive and look at your relationship as a PARTNERSHIP. If they don’t see it that way, that’s a problem.
Check ahead on what any and all ADD / ADHD meds cost locally on the GoodRx site, if cost is a real issue for you. Take printouts or make a list to discuss numbers, potential alternatives, drug company assistance programs, and coupons. My doc brought up the GoodRx on his desktop and showed me all the price differences for all the major pharmacies in my area.
If Costco’s Rx price(s) look(s) good, you don’t have to be a member. I believe my doc said that, as a “rule”, they typically only mark up meds 15% above cost. You’ll have to vet that though for your local Costco.
If you have insurance look up your plan’s drug formulary online or call the Rx division to see what ADHD meds are covered for adults / kids. A good portion will only cover ADHD meds if the patient is 17 and under. Some may need prior auth. My formulary was available online, but it was still not fully clear with all the Tier 1-2-3 “speak” and prior authorization verbiage with the Vyvanse. For the most part, only ADD meds for kids were covered in my plan’s formulary.
Some meds require “Step Therapy”. With that, you apparently have to try and exhaust other meds before the desired med is covered. And then it may be subject to a deductible and copay. If it happens that the Vyvanse falls on a step / tier / auth deal in my case and I ***can*** get it through my insurance, the rep I talked to said it looked to be subject to a $850 deductible and then it would be a 10% coins. Still way too expensive for me to do. :-/ I am already down several hundred dollars out of pocket with my initial visit.
I produced an “Extended Play Version” post separately due as I am not sure what this comment box is capable of. 🙂 It more elaborates on an adult AD(H)Der’s recent diagnosis and struggle. Either way, I hope the above info still helps anyone seeking a new doc and/or an official diagnosis.
Extended Play Version (tried reviewing for typos, but I gave up):
After doing extensive research trying to find a qualified provider to replace another I was unhappy with in my immediate area, I opened up my search to all of Michigan. I finally found someone clear across the state in Grand Rapids who was a legit ADD / ADHD specialist that I thought I would be way more comfortable with.
Up until that point, all I seemed to come across were docs whose assessment and testing (cash) fees were way more expensive than my new doc’s (~$1K+ !). One in particular, had online reviews that revealed questionable practices of nickle-and-diming patients with expensive tests, extra / unnecessary visits, and appts where the doc did not even look up at them from their laptop. Other providers offered very limited information (websites, reviews and over the phone). I received a psychiatrist referral from another doc I trusted and did personal work for, but her guy barely had a web presence. I wasn’t about to spend hundreds of dollars to find out after the fact he wasn’t the one for me.
I do have a (sort-of affordable) HMO insurance plan that I pay for out-of-pocket directly off the ObamaCare exchange. My employer does not offer coverage. There weren’t a ton of options available and ended up having a really bad and almost combative experience with a psychiatrist at a “general” mental health facility. After that, I decided to seek out a true ADD / ADHD specialist. My frustration and disappointment levels were so high (I should not have to walk out of a place crying hard and with zero hope) that I decided if I had to pay out of pocket for a solution, I would just take the financial hit.
The new doc I found was booked at least 2 months out, but the visit was such a relief. The wait was worth it because he actually took my history and current situation SERIOUSLY and I didn’t get the sense that he thought I might be some undercover bipolar drug-seeking individual like the first psych I saw at the other facility. A night and day experience.
I was prescribed a low dose of Vyvanse. After being floored with the price, the good doc educated me on the GoodRx website and the Spire Cares patient assistance program. He readily filled out his portion of the PAP form and I have since submitted my docs to Shires for consideration. Supposedly the turnaround timeline is a couple of weeks. I meet the general financial requirements, but am not sure if my current ins. formulary parameters may be a factor for approval. I received a partial Rx dosage to get me through the approval process period. Either way, if that doesn’t pan out, with him I feel like we can explore alternatives together without stress.
My AD(H)D Pivot Point / Background: What led me to seek help was a spate of occurrences that happened all at once in the span of less than a week and 3 in one a single morning. A witness to all of it (and some of my past active history) said, “You know, these kinds of things don’t happen to everybody, this is just YOU”. That made something click and I recalled a recent (at the time) private online forum thread where someone was asking for advice on getting organized. Some respectable-enough seeming people mentioned they had ADD / ADHD and how they were dealing with their issues. I got on Google to look up details and was like, OH SH*T. Then I ended up taking a bunch of tests I found on different websites. You can garner how those turned out.
I then got some books out of the library to trust, but verify the initial findings and found that I could thoroughly relate to so many of the stories and examples in them (bad time management, epic procrastination, constantly losing things, not finishing school [me, 3 HS + 2 colleges], being inconsistent financially, not progressing to my true abilities at work, often interrupting people+++).
Reading about “hyper-focus” lent explanation to my habit of starting up several bootstrapped side hustles (I really feel like I am an entrepreneur at heart). These all launched nicely, fit flexibility and extra money into my brand new mom schedule, but they all subsequently fizzled once the day-to-day minutiae set in with operations and clients. The excitement was all in the building and launching, but the lack of follow through on scaling, I really had no good excuses for. The hyper-focus periods would give me the “power” to build out websites, social accounts, and AdWords (internet ad) campaigns in a mere WEEKEND. Clients called, I did the work, got some cool online reviews, referrals, and then pffffft. In time, no matter what the hustle was, it all got boring AND overwhelming all at once. It sucks to seize up, drop something like a hot potato, just to add another layer of failure on top of yet another attempt at hopeful success. And usually in front of an “audience”. Story of my life. It’s hard not to feel like a complete loser sometimes.
On the “lighter” side, the incredibly ironic and ridiculous thing about this whole situation is that I was a total ADD / ADHD **HATER*** for a long, long time. I hardcore felt that it was an excuse for incorrigible kids and bad parenting all around. NOT REAL. And now here we are. Karma is a true “B”. XD
Much success to everyone out there who may be hitting walls at the moment finding a provider or getting a diagnosis, especially as an adult. Hope IS out there!
I’m 22 years old and have been on ADD meds for years. I’ve been on 70 mgs of vyvanse for quite some time, and have the metabolism of a 10 year old boy. If I take it at 10 A.M., it’s over and I’m scatterbrained by 2, making it impossible, as a writer, to get half of my work done. I know people who are prescribed vyvanse and an adderall boost alongside that for their end of the day work period. My doctor tried to give me Wellbutrin to extend my vyvanse, which did NOT work out. Switching psychiatrists sounds like such a pain… but every time I tell him I need something else, he tries to prescribe me some anti depressant to fix it, which makes no sense. How do I blatantly tell the doctor I want an adderall boost?
Be open about it and tell your doctor what you want Christine. I think that’s a very common need for people with ADHD (Vyvanse + extra booster dose). He should be able to accommodate you, because there’s nothing wrong with needing to accomplish your daily tasks!
Hey man thank you for being considerate enough for others to ts kee the time to share in details your personal experiences. Im 43 years old, and i feel like I’ve had a,d,h,d for most of my life,i used illegal street drugs for a little while just to be able to concentrate to finish a task, but i found my self spending more time looking for it than useing it, thats been 17 years ago, my wife gets prescribed addetall and it realy helps her focuse, but to be hounest i have been taking hers once in a while and it helps me so much , im so glad to know im not the only onethat may have adult adhd, ive takin the test for it at my primary care physician and I seem to get the run around i have a hard time getting my thoughts into words and having it make sense, im going to get an appointment for the Tommorw and try again thanks again for the advice
You’re very welcome Luke, thanks for sharing your thoughts on here as well. I wish you the best of luck with your doctor’s appointment. I hope you get the help you need man!
Keith bless you, I’ve been prescribed trintillex,rexuti,vibryd, now vraylar over two years now and nothing has helped. I believe life is simplified with truth. This vraylar im very uncomfortable with. In your opinion, would I be a candidate for thevyvanse or adderall, thank you.
Hi Stefan, My name is Kimble and I have recently began my third month of Vyvanse 40 MG a day and I have seen some very good progress. I still wonder quite a bit, as why I’m actually on here now ha, but it seems to have helped me begin to concentrate much more than I was. I was the type in school where I would be honed in for the first five to ten minutes of class and then it would be like a movie just plays in my head or I begin to think about everything I needed to do and get done through the day and before I knew it class was 45 minutes in and I had no clue where we were. It took me around 7 1/2 years to finish a bachelors degree if that tells you how bad it was. But I have noticed a bit of fatigue around 5-6 hours into the medicine and that is something I can’t get an answer about and was curious if you may know? And also its not something I want to be on for the rest of my life if I can help it and I really don’t know if they would allow such a thing but it has helped me out with my studies for work, my studies in my religious beliefs, being able to get more work than I was done, and my social life as well. Such as keeping a conversation going for more than 2 or 3 minutes and staying with one subject and not bouncing to ten different things in 5 minutes. Or being able to go to my boss and speak without being nervous on what to say or what they may think. And the studying of my work and church business so I don’t wonder off without understanding things or getting them done. Sorry this is all jumbled around but I was just wanting to get a lot of my thoughts out there. Thank you for help in advance!
Thank you for your comment Kimble! Wish you the best of luck with Vyvanse and your work and church business!
Hi I’ve been taking aderrall for probably half a year now and I’ve been getting it from a friend who doesn’t need it anymore and I wnat to get prescribed because I genuinely do need it I have all the symptoms of it but my current general doctor is a horrible office and it never came up , if I go to a physiatrist can or should I tell them that I’ve been taking it as if it were prescribed or should I not and just act like I need it and I’ve never take it ?
Hi Rose I recommend being honest with your doctor and explaining your situation. You can take an ADHD test if needed, or describe your ADHD symptoms to your doctor. If you’re honest about your situation, your doctor should believe you, and not have any issue with providing you the medication that you need.
I was prescribed adderall 30xr when I was in my teens. I stopped taking it and now I’m interested in taking it or something close to it again because I could use the extra focus and motivation achieved from taking them.
My question is, will the fact that i have already been diagnosed with adhd and already been prescribed them before, make it any easier to convince my new family doctor I need to get back on adderall or something similar? Or will it not even matter?
Yes, I would most definitely bring up the fact that you have ADHD to your family doctor. That’s exactly what I did.
I’m a college student, and I’ve struggled with ADHD symptoms for my entire life. I didn’t want to try medications when I was younger, but at this point I’ve tried every lifestyle change and coping mechanism I can find to manage my symptoms and I still struggle daily. I want to talk to my doctor about trying a low dosage of an ADHD medication, but I’m afraid they’ll dismiss me as a college kid who’s trying to abuse the medications. Do you have any advice for young adults who are trying to get help but are afraid of not being taken seriously?
Thanks
Go for it Nicole. You’ll be taken seriously. Promise.
I was on Ritalin when I was younger and for the past year I have struggled a lot with impulsiveness and reacting poorly to situations, concentration is poor to almost non existing. I have been telling my doctor all of these things and the past three times she has sent to see psychiatrists and they do nothing. They just talk to me. No person in interested in helping me and at this point I’m so severely agitated and can’t even focus or remember when my appointments are it is pointless. I’m beginning to lose hope because my motivation has disapated so badly.
Sorry to hear that Gina. Hope you keep trying and eventually something will click for you I’m sure.
I was referred to a nurse practitioner who specialize in behavior health but was accidently scheduled to see a psyd psychologist with doctorate (they cant prescribe in my state) should i call back to see if i can get a appointment with my referred person since nurse practitioners can prescribe?
Absolutely Jason, that sounds like a good plan. Call them back and get an appointment!
Hi Stefan, I am not currently prescribed any medications but focusing for 8-9 straight hours at work is a real struggle for me most of the time. I have a friend or two who are prescribed vyvanse and have taken them in the past a couple times and good lord, what a difference it makes for me. Should I tell the doctor that I have tried them once or twice and could tell they worked wonders for me? Would that give me a better shot at being prescribed?
Hi Bill. That’s amazing to hear that you had such a great experience with Vyvanse. I think if it worked well for you, you can be honest with your doctor and tell him your thoughts (if you fully trust your doctor, that is). I wish you the best of luck either way Bill!
I was recently diagnosed without ADHD at the age of 42 and started taking Vyvanse. I had the very rare unfortunate side effect of a nasty rash and had to stop using it (so sad as I felt it was making a slight difference in the 4-5 days I was taking it). I go back to the doc this week to follow up and hopefully get a new prescription for something else.
If you have any experience with Adderal XR or Concerta, can you tell me the pros and cons of these meds? I’m looking for a first hand account with these meds that isn’t just a quick “this is great!” I see on most boards. Any help is appreciated.
Hi Linda thank you for your comment!
Adderall XR and Concerta both work great based on my experience.
Adderall XR is long-lasting, and I believe Concerta works very well too (my roommate in college used it with great success).
Let me know if you have any more questions!
I’ve been taking Vyvanse 60mg for 10 years and My psychiatrist makes me do a doctor visit and blood test every 90-days/3 months.
I’d like to save money on these repetitive visits where nothing changes for a decade.
Does anyone else get Vyvanse while just doing an annual visit?
Great question Gary. Have you asked your doctor about this?
I’m currently looking for a doctor who can prescribe Vyvanse. Its ironic; I need Vyvanse to complete this task. i been off it since I moved to Tennessee. I recently got fired for not completing some major tasks regarding staff and proper procedure. I thought I could function well enough to keep the job,but now I know I need it. When I first got on it, I got so much done. I called it my “finishing drug”. Who knew it was also my “get started drug”? Now I know. And I’m more motivated than ever! Wish me luck.
Good luck Nancy! Talk to a good doctor and explain your ADHD situation. I’m sure they will understand, and give you an ADHD test if needed.
Remember folks, when talking to Doctors about getting ANY type of medication you’re wanting, for ME, (I’ve done this for Years) it all comes down to “QUALITY OF LIFE”. Meaning you speak to your Physician and tell them that the certain medication you’re wanting has only helped IMPROVE your quality of life. I’m not suggesting you lie to your Doctor, but I always told them I was in College. And I was at a point of time. But honestly, your QUALITY OF LIFE is not as it should be without the medication. Tell them you will opt to take Drug tests and…if you’re not abusing them…voluntary pill counts. The Doctor will like to hear that, because He/She will feel that He/She can trust you and that you’re being straight up with Him/Her.
Hope this helps a little. I’ll be 33 in January and I’ve been doing this all my life. You have to be a good talker as well. Like the admin said, it’s about building a relationship with the Doctor. Again, I’m not telling you to fib…but the more He/She hears you speak about the sort of things that they would want to hear from a “healthy” Patient, the more and more your chances of getting whatever sort of medication you’re wanting from them turns out to be.
Good luck.
I find that Aptensio XR works better for me than Vyvanse. It seems to last longer and doesn’t have the side effect of terrible tummy aches as the meds wear off that I got with Vyvanse. How does Aptensio compare with Vyvanse or the other meds you’ve mentioned, Adderall and Concerta? Should I be concerned about long-term usage?
Love your website btw Sarah. And I honestly haven’t heard about Aptensio so I apologize but cannot help there. Would love to hear about what you’ve been up to lately.
Hi Stephan, I really appreciate your site/posts because they speak most to my experience as a professional (woman) trying to live my best life. I have a couple questions for you:
First, what advice would you share with me looking to transition to Vyvanse from over tens years of Dextroamphetamine and Adderall. I’m prescribed up to 60 mg of Dex now and I’ve had some re-dosing and insomnia scares over the past year where I’ve taken close to 100mg in a day for 3-4 days straight. Thank goodness I was able to take a full month off meds and now I’m back to 30-40 mgs per day. I worry my high tolerance will demand too much of the Vyvanse. Should I try to take a long break before switching?
Second, can you share more of your self-talk, rationale, hacks that allow you to resist cravings for Vyvanse (or other stimulants)? I work in management consulting and love the wide variety of tasks and projects I get to manage. However I often fall into the trap where every situation feels like an exception to take more meds, then redose, and the cycle repeats. I haven’t found the right mindset and tools to keep me from creeping to those dangerous levels again.
Your advice would be so appreciated here. Happy holidays!
Thanks so much Ella. Yes I can share more tips on using self-talk and other tricks to resist cravings. I will do another article on this.
I am a 55 year old woman with a history of ADD/inattention. It runs in my family (on 2 sides) and my oldest son (age 29) was diagnosed with it at age 5. That is when I found out about myself. He was diagnosed at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, children’s psychology department…pretty credible in my opinion! I was able to get him into a neuropsychiatrist/neurosurgeon who was also ADD herself! She was very helpful and spent a lot of time with us each visit. She actually brought it to my attention that I was also ADD, inattention. My son, who failed preschool because he spent most of the time spinning around on the floor, became a straight A student all the way through elementary school. I couldn’t go on the medication because I was nursing my daughter and then another son later on. Finally, when my youngest was weaned, we had moved to another city and I saw another psychiatrist. He also diagnosed me as ADD/inattention, by just hearing about symptoms in my childhood and it being on my family. Also I had been suffering trying to be a single parent of 3 under age 10. I was given Adderall XR and took it for about 9 months or so until the budget got too tight and I couldn’t afford it anymore–no insurance. It helped me so much!! Many years later, I am seeing a Psychologist who has a special license to prescribe meds. My primary doc did not believe in ADD meds. I am now remarried and have a 4th child, and my 3rd child still lives at home, is in college. My new husband has been with me for 10 years. We met each other at work. He didn’t know about my ADD then. But, I remember how I struggled to get
My house organized after a move (while we were dating,) and he paid to have 2 maid help me!! Then after marriage, we lived in his smallish bachelor house and I still worked full time, so we shared chores 50/50. I looked good, then. I could work full-time, keep house, and take care of 4 kids, but of course he did a lot too. But, then, we got a bigger house, which we needed, about 1000 square ft more and 3 and a half baths. I hired a house keeper to come every 3 weeks and my husband and I continued to share chores. Then everything suddenly changed when I lost my job. I went on unemployment and job searched, and had to let the maid service go. I never recovered. I ended up with a part-time job around 10-12 hours per week as supplemental income, and focused on raising the 2 children in our household. My husband now expected me to handle the domestic side as he was the main bread winner. I gave it 100 % effort, but it quickly became apparent that I was not living up to my husband’s expectations. He was criticizing my efforts all the time and complained that I did things half assed. I had very little energy and motivation. I could never finish anything and the house became very cluttered, messy. Organization is very hard for me. So, our relationship started to suffer and I had to tell him about my ADD. He insisted I go to a doctor for treatment. I was shocked at how it has all changed. The psychologist said I was depressed and put me on Zoloft. That did help my anxiety and mood swings, and gave me a little more energy and focus, but not nearly enough. I still could not conquer the Mountains of clutter in our house. I could never feel on top of things, and just could not manage our household, if I wasnt married to my husband he would have fired me.
The psychologist said she had to send me to another diagnostic specialist to test me to see if I was ADD. A positive test result is the only way it could be covered. The diagnostican was supremely busy and had to reschedule me several times. She asked very few questions about my background. The test was part behaviors and part IQ. To make an already too long story short, the test came out inconclusive. She said there were some In attention issues, but not enough to call it ADD. She said I was just severely depressed and should consider going into the hospital. My psychologist determined the test to be inconclusive and said she would write a referral for me to take another test if I could find another diagnostican. Meanwhile, she is adding, wellbutrin, a non-stimulant, secondary med that may help me a little more. She will not say if I am ADD or not. Now, my husband thinks I am stupid and lazy and uncaring!!!. I care very much and try very hard, with little to show for my efforts. He’s back to criticizing me and jokes that I am retired already. I am definitely depressed, but it’s secondary caused by the ADD. These doctors are hard to get into and when I find a good one who will test me, I will probably be put on a waiting list. There is a shortage of specialist in Albuquerque. At least I am strong in my faith and prayer helps some too. Also, I read a lot of articles and self- help blogs for survival tips and consolation. And I started exercising regularly, which is also helping a little. It is so unfair for this to be so difficult to get the treatment I need. Any advice anyone has to offer will be well-considered and very appreciated.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Leslie! I hope you are able to get the treatment you need!
Thank you for this sight
Thank YOU Jack.
I know this is an older page but hopefully you still get this comment and can reply. I was just curious about the taste and texture of the vyvanse that you put in water. My grandson also has sensory disorder and is very sensitive to taste and textures.
Thanks so much for any help and this is a great site!
Jami
I am relocating to Nashville. I have been prescribed Vyvanse for 10 years and it works well for me. How do I find an internal Med doc that prescribes Vyvanse?