Adult ADHD

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Posted by: Hercules | 2019/11/20

Q. Adult ADHD

Good day Dr. Renata First I want to thank you for the wonderful work you do in this field and everything you and Nic are doing for the communities. #iamstaying Then my Question: I grew up in a small town(Skukuza) and never had access as a child to proper medical advice and grew up with the believe that I am naughty and impulsive. Struggling at School and University. Now I am 36 and 2 years ago took up studying again while working full time. I really battled to stay focus on work during the day and my studies at night. My wife always complaining that I never sit still. Finally I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD. Being a healthy individual and not ever needing to take any medication the thought of being on Chronic medication was not my cup of tea. I weigh 88kg and exercise everyday. The doc wanted to start me on 56mg Neucon and with the fear of becoming dependent I said I will start on the 18mg and work my way up to 56mg. I have been on the 18mg for about a month and then over to the 36mg and only took two 56mg. The day before my final exam and the day of my exam. I am now back on the 36 mg. I have seen a massive change in my work and study life. With the ability to stay focused and keep my thought in check. My questions in two parts: Can I stop taking the medication immediately or do I need to slowly drop the dose? You may ask why I want to stop. The second part of my question: My medical aid only pays for Child ADHD 5 - 18 years old. As if Adults can not get ADHD. Is there a way I can motivate to my medical aid to pay for my medication? Also the thought of being dependent on medication does not sit well with me so if I don't need to take the medication that will be great. I will start with my studies again next year and will then start on the low dose again to assist with studying. Thank for your time, I know this is a lot of information.

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Expert's Reply

A.

ADHD Expert

- 2019/11/21

Thank you for the feedback. Often adults do well on a relatively "low" dose - so 36mg may be effective for you, especially if you combine it with a healthy lifestyle. Also, you will not become "dependent" on medication - in the same way that someone needs glasses or someone with hypertension needs medication - they are not "dependent" on it, but it "corrects" and "protects". It is always better to use medication daily. Also ADHD is not an "academic" problem only needing treatment when you have to study or write exams! Untreated ADHD can also affect interpersonal relationships, driving safety, etc. Please reconsider? Finally, we have an ongoing "battle" with medical schemes to fund treatment for adults as well, and we have made some inroads. Watch this space - but be patient!

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C.

Posted by: Hercules | 2019/11/22

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my questions. I appreciate the feedback. I do feel a lot better to stay on the medication with your explanation. I agree with you ADHD is not just an Academic or Work problem, I think over time I have just learnt to cope with the effects on the rest of my life. And I do hope that you find a way to convince the Medical Aids to join the solution. If I can assist in any way please feel free to contact me. Thanks again.