Has anyone every known ADHD meds to be harmful in the long run?

I was on Ritalin for 10 years and now Adderall for 2 and major problems for me is what happens when I DON'T take something. :)

I'm 18 and have ADHD. I've tried multiple medications... from Focalin (essentially Ritalin) to Strattera. After experiencing multiple uncomfortable side effects I decided to try and cope without medication. The long term side effects (as far as I am aware) of ADHD medications have yet to be determined (ADHD treatment is fairly new). While medications may be a temporary treatment I do not think they should be the sole solution. I'd suggest teaching your child how to cope with her ADHD whether she is using the medication or not.

Then comes the question... How extreme would the side effects have to be for your child to give up use of the medications? I'm constantly wondering this for myself... the medications work miracles for me and sometimes I wonder... There must be a cost for this - what is it - and am I willing to pay it?

Sorry if this is incoherent - as I mentioned... I'm off adhd meds for the meantime - I wish you all the best and hope you and your daughter can find your way through this.

With. Definitely with meds unless it was a child or teen that was still developing. The stress might be transitory and you have to use the meds that are not addicting. Go to the bookstore and buy a book on Prescription Drugs to make sure you don't take something addicting. The stress can wreak havoc with your brain and your body too. With all this terrorism in the world today, a lot of people are turning to meds for too much anxiety. Consequently, newer and better drugs are coming out every year!! Good Luck!!

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