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CNS stimulants

Messages
87
I have found CNS stimulants to help, but I've never been an that high a dose, and not tried it systematically. Dr. Chia's comment was that something like ... just because I feel better on CNS Stimulants, doesn't mean I should use them to exercise.

The thing is that drugs like these wear off overnight and so you know the PEM is still there when you wake up in the morning and feel that PEM cloud floating over you. It is just a mask, not a cure.

Specifically, I responded to 10mg of Adderall.

I currently don't take it. It is better just to not be on it long term until it is the last remating resort for treatment. It is hard to get and mostly a mask of symptoms -- which is fine if I eventually run out of other options.
 

Diwi9

Administrator
Messages
1,780
Location
USA
I still have an old prescription of Adderall. On occasion when I'm doing well (symptoms are mild) and need to get some work done, half a pill (i.e. 5mg), can really boost my ability to concentrate and read/write. However, I must also keep very disciplined to not over-extend, because as you say, the PEM is still there in the morning.

If I'm actually having cognitive dysfunction or any sort of sensory issues, stimulants are a nightmare. Although, I have also developed a sensitivity to caffeine, so I could be extra sensitive to stimulants in general. For example, the comedown can be very hard, I find this especially so with Adderall (i.e. heart palpitations and cold extremities).
 
Messages
87
Dr. Chia's less scientific but more useful comment was: only about half of patients respond to stimulants at all. I'm lucky I do. Don't abuse it and run ot it or you're digging the hole deeper.