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by synicalx 1529 days ago
On the topic of ADHD, I would STRONGLY recommend getting a second opinion of any diagnosis especially as an adult.

Doctors seem to be very trigger happy when it comes to medication for ADHD and it's not always necessary. If you can afford it then it's definitely a good idea to get a second, independent opinion just to be sure before you start quaffing pharmaceutical grade amphetamines for the rest of your life.

1 comments

I'm not sure I'd use the phrase 'trigger happy' for doctors willing to prescribe stimulant medication to adults. The literature is clear that the stimulant meds are very effective for ADHD and the side effects of normal doses are pretty minimal. https://slatestarcodex.com/2017/12/28/adderall-risks-much-mo... is a pretty balanced take on the risks/benefits.

So, as a doctor, if an otherwise responsible adult is stating that their inability to focus is having a negative impact on their life, and you know there are reasonably safe and potentially very effective drugs that can be tried, what, exactly should hold you back? Likewise, as an informed patient, what is the harm in trying a low dose and seeing if it helps enough to be worth it?

There are non-pharmacological interventions for ADHD that might be worth a shot like CBT, developing executive function, and other behavioral/coaching interventions.

Compare minimal side effects to zero side effects and not having to pay for something indefinitely.

You can try other things before reaching for the pills if your doctor thinks it's appropriate.