Q: I'm about to graduate from college in the spring. Since high school, I have been prescribed Adderall to help me focus in class and in my studies. Now that I am soon to be a graduate, my parents want me to discontinue my prescription. I have argued that I will continue to need it when I get a job, but they are persistent. Truthfully, I'm scared of being without it. What do you suggest?
A: From your question, it appears that Adderall (amphetamine) is still an effective treatment for what I suspect is your condition — ADHD. Research has now demonstrated that this medication is as effective in adulthood as it is in childhood for individuals appropriately diagnosed with ADHD. Although as people grow older some of the symptoms, as well as their severity, are reduced, the majority of youth with ADHD symptoms and impairments continue to experience a number of problems in their adult life.
I am not certain I understand why your parents want you to discontinue the prescription, but their opinion does not appear to be based on known research. You might ask them if they are concerned that you or your friends might abuse the Adderall. A number of recent articles have cited abuse of Adderall by students without ADHD on college campuses. I suggest you begin by seeking accurate information concerning adult ADHD and treatment with medication.
You might ask your prescribing physician to speak with you and your parents, or seek a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist experienced in treating this condition. But the decision about continuing medication should be based on need and knowledge, not fear or belief.
Learn more in the Everyday Health ADD/ADHD Center.
http://www.everydayhealth.com
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