ADHD and Stimulants?

I have ADHD. I really don't like medication.. Most of the medication for ADHD are stimulants.. On the other hand, Caffeine is a stimulant. So in that aspect, would it possible to self-medicate myself with Caffeine?

The single classification of medicines most closely associated with the temporary reduction of ADHD symptoms in some persons (not everyone) is the central nervous system stimulants - alerting agents. The weakest is coffee - caffeine compounds; stronger meds include Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall, Adderall XR, etc. Caffeine works for a few of those with ADHD (not everyone). A med for ADHD does not work for everyone. In some cases, the right choice is to be med-free. Using caffeine to reduce ADHD symptoms is not self-medication; it is using a known FDA approved drug to temporarily reduce ADHD symptoms (which actually works for a few of those with ADHD, not everyone). Good luck.

Maybe, it helps with asthma and getting premature babies to breath. But I don't see the benefit in taking one stimulant instead of another that is specific to your problem since the side effects will probably be similar.

i dont know if they work the same or not cause most of the adhd meds have stuff in them to help the brain to work right i would ask your dr before you tried it just to be sure

Never try to self medicate. you cant regulate your levels caffeine can You ? i have ADHD and i am an adult.The stimulants will Not make you racy if that's your concern. If they do the one have to be adjusted ,are having a side effect or possibly your NOT ADHD.Stimulants work an opposite effect on ADD/ADHD its more a calming effect.Coffee soda all that makes me tired .I really would no suggest it .that's My personal and professional opinion.

Many people with ADHD self-medicate with stimulants. Unfortunately, many go to hard drugs to be able to calm down and focus. Nicotine and caffeine are two most often used that are legal. You might consider two other options, one prescription, one not. Many adults are helped by large doses of Omega 3 Fatty Acid. It is available in fish oil and flax seed oil. I take 6,000 mg a day just because I don't eat much fish and it is essential for brain function. The other option is a prescription drug called Strattera. It is a Selective Noradrenaline Re uptake Inhibitor and takes a week or so to build up the Noradrenaline in your system. It has some side effects, but not like Ritalin or Adderall. Any activity that helps stimulate adrenaline in your system will help you calm down and focus. Good luck!

bdaedalus359 -

Medication has been shown to relieve symptoms of ADHD in many cases. Yet at the same time, medications do not cure ADHD. And some studies actually suggest that there are no long-term benefits to remaining on medications to treat ADHD.

Simply put - medication is one method of treatment for ADHD. And while it can be more effective for some, medication is not the only answer. Someone with ADHD should also be in therapy with a psychologist, social worker, or other therapist who specializes in working with ADHD.

Managing symptoms for some with ADHD can be done quite effectively without medication - IF you have the right guidance and support.

And self-medicating can be quite dangerous and actually cause more problems in the long run.

Hope this helps.

Dr. Rory Stern
http://www.adhdsuccessaudio.com