Wellness
People say medications like Adderall arent working like they used to.
We asked them how theyre coping.
Taking Adderall, Kait Visser says, was a very good decision.
But Adderall quickly proved different.
It boosted her motivation, reduced intrusive thoughts, and even helped alleviate her depression.
Projects that used to take her 10 hours would be finished in five.
She felt not amazing, but functional.
She couldnt focus on work, and when she did, getting things done took longer.
But she had just increased her dosage.
It didnt make sense.
Why, all of a sudden, am I getting behind on all these things?
says Visser, whos based in Bellingham, Washington.
Im really trying but the focus I usually have just isnt there.
Now, she says, shes facing missed deadlines, low energy, and decreased productivity.
All of a sudden its operating how I was when I was unmedicated, she says.
It feels like I can’t trust myself again, and thats really scary.
Shes investing more time into things that give her a dopamine boost, like DIY projects around the house.
Shes drinking lots of caffeine, and is on a waiting list to see a psychiatrist.
Im basically sh*t out of luck.
Theres been no indication from the FDA that other ADHD drugs efficacies have decreased, either.
With no way to validate their suspicions, many ADHDers are turning to TikTok to express their frustrations.
Others are simply sharing their experiences, looking for anyone who can relate.
It was so patronizing and condescending.
You dont know these peoples experiences.
Some Adderall users are switching prescriptions altogether, but with mixed results.
Vyvanse worked for her then, but its not clicking now.
I dont feel it kick in.
I have sporadic thoughts constantly that Im still trying to fight.
Shes scoured TikTok for natural remedies, none of which have helped.
But she also pointed out that her medication is critical to getting through the day.
I dont have the motivation to find ways to cope, she said.
I just have not had the motivation to do literally anything.
But over the past four months or so, shes noticed a major drop in her focus and productivity.
Like Ogawa, Hubbard has come up with a Rolodex of coping mechanisms.
She brings a list of questions to appointments so she doesnt forget anything.
She breaks up long stretches of work with more hands-on tasks, like taking her dog for a walk.
I wrote some notes down before you called.
I knew I wouldnt remember if I didnt do that.