Brief Answer: Generic Methylphenidate Detailed Answer: Hi, Welcome to Healthcare Magic! I do not know if you have tried the generic version of Methylphenidate (Ritalin) or not. It is far cheaper than Ritalin. Prescription medicines go “generic” when a company’s patent on them lapses, usually after about 12 to 15 years. At that point, other companies can make and sell the drug. Generics are much less expensive than newer brand-name medicines, but they are not lesser quality drugs. So if you have not tried generic methylphenidate, then you can consider doing so. There are other medicines for treatment of ADHD but you will not find them to be cheaper than Ritalin in USA. I guess your anxiety and low mood are due to ADHD related impairment in performance. That is why, I am not suggesting the use of an antidepressant. If you do not wish to be on medication, I can suggest some techniques which can help you cope better with the inattention and related problems. 1) If you can’t remember an instruction, ask your supervisor to repeat it. Don’t just guess. 2) Break big jobs into smaller tasks, and reward yourself (verbally) as you finish each one. 3) Make a list of what you need to do each day, then put these tasks in the order you intend to do them. Cross each thing off the list as soon as you have done it. 4) Work in a quiet area. 5) Do one thing at a time. 6) Take regular, short breaks. Have a look at your list when on a break and decide the next task. 7) Carry a notebook to write down things you need to remember. 8) Use sticky notes to remind yourself of things you need to do. Post them where you will notice them, such as on your refrigerator or car dashboard. 9) Organize similar things together. Bills should be separate from personal letters. Music CDs should be in one place, videos in another. 10) Create a routine. Get up and go to bed at the same time each day. 11) Exercise, eat a balanced diet, and try to get enough sleep. I hope this is of some help to you. Please let me know if there is something else you want to know. Best wishes. Dr Preeti Parakh MD Psychiatry

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Brief Answer: Yes. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for writing back. If a medicine has worked for you in the past, then all doctors would prefer to prescribe it again. But since you mention that you were not happy with Ritalin, then obviously you should look for other alternatives. If Adderall or its generic version suits you, then it is good but I still feel that you can try atomoxetine (Strattera) or clonidine (Kapvay) as well once. The reason for the suggestion is that you will obviously need to continue your medicine for long, so try to choose the best option, both in terms of efficacy and cost. With Adderall, there is a risk of dependence and you may find it very difficult to cope if you are suddenly without your medicine for some reason. Best wishes. Dr Preeti Parakh MD Psychiatry

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Brief Answer: Good luck! Detailed Answer: Hi, Since you are cautious and well aware, I do not expect that misuse will be a problem with you. Take care and discuss all options with your doctor, especially their costs, before taking a final decision. Best wishes. Dr Preeti Parakh MD Psychiatry

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