Ritalin / Addy causing drowsiness?

[Zobra]

Hi folks.  I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that I find myself asking a question like this, in that it comes with the territory of self medication.

I just received some stimulating meds from a reputable vendor and was looking forward to the energizing effects they are known for.  However it has not affected me that way.  In fact, they make me very drowsy, to the point where I've had to go take an hour or two nap in the middle of the day.  Has anyone else experienced this with ritalin or addy?  I'm really bummed because I struggle with concentration, drive, energy, etc.  I've been a "sleepy" person my whole life, needing naps even after a full night sleep.  

I've also taken Moda products for almost a year now.  They only thing they really do for me is help me stay awake during the day, but I never felt like it made me focus or work better than normal.

But does anyone know why these new meds might be causing the sleepiness?  Does my body need time to adjust?  Even if I take a low dose it makes me a little tired but if I take a high dose it makes me more tired.  I took 10mg Ritalin about an hour ago and I've noticed my heart is beating faster but after I finish writing this I think I need to go lay down and close my eyes.  

I'm frustrated.  I guess I'm going to go see my primary care doc (or find a new one) and try my best to explain my symptoms (pre-medication) and hope he can help.  Something is just not right but I don't know if it's depression, hormones, add, anxiety, etc.  I've been trying the self medicating route because the doctors I've seen tend to make me feel bad about asking for help.  They also don't seem to have a lot of knowledge of particular medications, other than whatever the reps might tell them.

[Zobra]

Is there a better place to ask questions like these? I figured the "general" page would be appropriate, but please let me know if it doesn't belong.

[Charon]

at fifty posts, there are threads u can make that only others with fifty posts can read.

its fine here for now, if u don't mind.

[Zobra]

Not at all, if you don't. I don't think anything gets by you here, does it!? I hope I don't miss the cutoff for my 50 posts. I got very busy with work for a while, had company, life, etc. Now I've made a note to myself to put in those 5/day every day. Thanks!

[Lechter]

There are many knowledgeable and helpful folks on this forum but the unusual scope of your issue might indicate a need for a one on one professional diagnosis.

Hope that you find an appropriate treatment path for your condition.  The number of posts per day is clearly secondary...

[Zobra]

I agree, thanks Lechter. It's strange for sure. Now that I've got health insurance again I'll be setting up an appointment soon.

[Caver]

If you are truly ADD then the medication will slow you down and most times make you sleep. I can take 20 mg of Ritalin and fall asleep at the drop of a hat. Stimulants have an opposite effect on someone that has ADD. Most doctors that prescribe it doesn't understand that basic concept.

[Lechter]

The problem is, Caver, that most doctors think everyone has ADD... particularly young boys.

[Zobra]

If you are truly ADD then the medication will slow you down and most times make you sleep. I can take 20 mg of Ritalin and fall asleep at the drop of a hat. Stimulants have an opposite effect on someone that has ADD. Most doctors that prescribe it doesn't understand that basic concept.

That's interesting, actually.  Because years ago when I heard about people using Addy and Rita for energy and studying I was like, wait I thought those meds were supposed to calm down the hyper hypos!  That's why they gave them out to "active" kids so readily.  I have no idea how that works, but relating to my experience it seems to make a little more sense.  

I'd also read of some people being sleepy on it but they just weren't taking the right amount.  I took a double dose (still low) yesterday and for once it didn't send me right to bed so maybe that's the ticket.  Still, I hope I can find the right doc around here to help me.  I've never been to a psychiatrist before but perhaps its time.

[AnonymousAnxiety]

I get add. Through my doc (diagnosed with ADD) It hasn't ever made me drowsy but it has had the opposite effect in giving energy, while helping me to stay focused and on task.