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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Prescribed Modafinil. Is There Any Alternative To It?

Hello, my Dr. prescribed me Modafinil 100-200 a day to help with a constant battle with energy and alertness. I do not have insurance and the medication is over 800.00 $ for 30 tablets. I asked him for Adderall 20-30 mil a day since I have had success on that medication. Both my son and my sister were diagnosed with add and feel like I may have the disease as well since I have trouble getting things done and focusing on issues I face on a daily basis. I am a recently divorced [ 3 years now ] and have trouble focusing on responsibilities that seem overwhelming at times. [ some as simple as paying bills even if I have the money to do so ] . Adderal made me think and focus clearly again but my Dr. seams hesitant to write it for me . Is there a similar medication that could help me with my issues ? I don t know what to do anymore and I cannot afford Modifinal . I am self employed and my life seams a blurr unless I take 20 - 30 mil of adderal with my morning coffee. What should I do ? I am almost 40 and in otherwise good health. signed MOTIVATIONLESS
Tue, 18 Jun 2013
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hi,
From your question i gather, history of ADHD in both sons, difficulty in alertness, good response on adderall or amphetamines (?prescribed previously by a doctor), currently on modafinil. You want to know why cant you continue with amphetamines.
Amphetamines belong to a group of drugs called psychostimulants that possess properties of dependence, tolerance and withdrawal. That means, once you start taking it regularly you need to take more doses as time progresses to achieve similar response, you get hooked on to it because your body's physiology changes such that your body will start showing distressing symptoms if adequate dose is not taken. Long term use of which can cause anxiety or psychosis.
Modafinil has similar stimulant properties and is a safe drug.
Other safe options that are commonly used are atomoxetine and bupropion.
Kindly discuss the cost of drug issue with your treating doctor.
Hope this helps,
Dr Anjana rao.
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Prescribed Modafinil. Is There Any Alternative To It?

Hi, From your question i gather, history of ADHD in both sons, difficulty in alertness, good response on adderall or amphetamines (?prescribed previously by a doctor), currently on modafinil. You want to know why cant you continue with amphetamines. Amphetamines belong to a group of drugs called psychostimulants that possess properties of dependence, tolerance and withdrawal. That means, once you start taking it regularly you need to take more doses as time progresses to achieve similar response, you get hooked on to it because your body s physiology changes such that your body will start showing distressing symptoms if adequate dose is not taken. Long term use of which can cause anxiety or psychosis. Modafinil has similar stimulant properties and is a safe drug. Other safe options that are commonly used are atomoxetine and bupropion. Kindly discuss the cost of drug issue with your treating doctor. Hope this helps, Dr Anjana rao.