I have been diagnosed with ADHD for a couple of years. At 41 y/o it's
quite a shock to realize that you have never been fully conscious. My
real shocker came last month, when they tell me that I have a dual
condition: narcolepsy AND ADHD. I also have diabetes for 13 years now.

At first, I used Ritalin. That really didn't settle well with me.
Though it kept me awake, It didnt quite give me the focus. There was
much teeth clenching involved. At least, though, I stopped falling
asleep at the wheel.

About two months ago, I tried Adderall (amphetamine). This made quite a
difference. My focus was much greater, I became more conversational and
extremely focused. However, the dosage was much smaller and I didn't
quite get the coverage I needed. Sadly, it wore off long before I would
head for home.

About two weeks ago, my new psychologist suggested Provigil (modafinil)
which is prescribed for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, but, more
recently, has been tested as an alternative to the amphetimine/ritalin.
Though it does decrease appetite and is meant to keep a person alert, I
found it didn't interfere with food or sleep as much as the others. In
fact, I have been sleeping much better and wake up earlier. The other
big BIG bonus is that my coverage is about 12 hours.

Modafinil was the best kept secret of the military. The air force
tested piolts using it to remain alert on long search and rescue
operations. It is also described as a 'mood brightener'. I have found
it less likely to make me cranky during that 'hour of hell' when the
other medicaions would wear off. This is much more subtle. Sometimes, I
don't even feel like I took anything at all.

My doctor still lets me have Adderall, but I don't always take it. I've
been unemployed for months, since hurricane rita. He suggested that my
mental and physical demands might change somewhat, depending on what
kind of work I end up with.

Well, it's definiately wearing off now and I am getting drowsy so's I'm
a'gonna go to bed now. Just thought I would pass this on.

PS They don't recommend Provigil for persons under 16.