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by justboxing 2597 days ago
Very informative article.

The author didn't really delve into whether he uses meds to cope with ADHD.

How do other people who have ADHD cope with it as startup founders? Do meds like Adderall, Ritalin or Concerta work? What about Nootropics?

Asking cos this situation seems to be very common in our profession i.e. starting some side project, getting overwhelmed with perfectionism, distractions and never shipping. Is that ADHD or just plain procrastination?

3 comments

Yes the meds work. Stimulants and ADHD are one clear cut medical win. Stimulants have a >90% success rate, and the instances where they don’t work are often more along the lines of the side effects not being worth it. The only difficulty is in finding a doctor that will prescribe, and a personal regimen that works.
> The author didn't really delve into whether he uses meds to cope with ADHD.

This note is toward the end of the article:

A note on medication: When I take medication I feel these skills being dulled. I can't think as quickly, I'm not as outgoing. ADHD medication also contributes to an increase in anxiety, and so for me it's not worth it. If you're struggling you should absolutely try it. For some people, medication is a must. Don't ever feel bad about taking it if it helps you.

The other thing you have to realize about medicine, is that effects can car drastically person to person. For some, it makes them think quicker and makes them much more social.
I noticed the omission too. Even if he's not using any medication, that seems like something worth mentioning.

Incidentally, I've had really good experiences with modafinil (aka Provigil). It's not approved for ADHD treatment in the US, but studies suggest it is effective, and it's widely prescribed off label.

Modafinil is awesome for ADHD, but I've found its effects tend to plateau after a few months. Traiditional, do one thing well stimulants were my magic bullet. Currently (for the past several years) using Dexedrine.