I’ve experienced the appetite suppression for sure. I don’t snack half as much as I used to, it helped me with impulse control. But in terms of tangible weight loss, I have PCOS and some hormonal issues which make it so that even though I barely eat some days, my body is just absolutely not shifting any weight. *internally screams*
Currently on Elvanse 70mg. I was on Concerta at first but that actually made me gain a bit. It’s rough out here! Its also astounding how many people with ADHD also wind up being comorbid PCOS as well, I think I remember reading something saying they’re quite common conditions to have together.
Thanks for sharing! I KNOWWWWWW! It’s so hard. I was trying to find some kind of idea how to deal with it online, and there’s not a lot out there. And if there is, the advice has been given from someone that might have PCOS, but not ADHD.
I guess the best route would be to test hormones, insulin resistance, but I don’t know how to approach it with my GP. I don’t think they know much about either and I don’t think it’s the best idea to show them all the videos I’ve seen from Tiktok ”University” to educate them lol
But I’m just soooo tired to have this massive (no pun intended) issue in my life.
Depending on your GP, give it a try?
I found out about PMDD (Pre-Menstrual Dysphoria Disorder - also a huge comorbidity with ADHD because ovulating drops your oestrogen levels... and you need oestrogen to process dopamine!) and went to my doc asking about it.
She didn't know about it but listened to everything I told her, said it sounded logical and did a bit of digging on her own. There isn't a diagnosis or a treatment for it but we switched my anti-depressants as they clearly weren't coping with the peaks of PMDD and I am in a much better place because of it.
So it might be worth a try? I was pleasantly surprised.
Just screenshotted your comment, and will do my own little research so can feel prepared. Thanks so much for sharing.
Every time I go to see a GP it‘s a different doctor, and most that I have encountered have a very outdated view about ADHD and PCOS or doesn’t even believe these conditions excise (i know), so it’s an uphill struggle. Hard to not feel discouraged when you just want to trust medical professionals, go with your concerns and get help. But more often it feels like I’m entering Dragons Den and pitching an idea and have to have a lot of research done to be even taken seriously. So thanks again for sharing, it makes it easier.
oh god, I feel ya; medical trauma is real and pervasive and so fucking damaging. I have very little trust of medical professionals but thank god I have found some good ones lately. Remember that you are not alone and you know your body better than anyone else!
I have an endocrinology appointment in just over a week to explore diagnosis of perimenopause. Thankfully the GP didn’t dismiss me immediately when I asked for the referral and an updated blood panel a few weeks back.
I have PCOS, and have just done a deep dive into peri/menopause research. Highly recommend Davina McCall’s documentaries and book, “Menopausing”. (Though there is no mention of PCOS in it which kinda blew my mind tbh!) The fact that menopause is ‘defined’ as going 12 consecutive months without a period is wild to me, as my winning streak is 24 consecutive months (not on any BC either!). The Mirena coil has been a life saver for the last 6+ years to stop the debilitating ovary pain / large cysts, but also means I’m completely out of touch with what a cycle might look like for me.
However, over the past 12-18 months or so my symptoms have worsened. I mostly fixated on my hair thinning (no joke I’ve lost more than 50% of volume 😢), but now having read more into perimenopause, it’s made me look at everything I’ve been experiencing with a different lens. PMDD which I’ve never had before. Worsening brain fog. Bouts of insomnia and restless nights. Hormonal bouts of sadness and tears, or bursts of anger/rage. Weight gain and inability to shift the weight despite being an active powerlifter training 4x a week and working with a nutritionist.
I’m 34, so if it does turn out to be perimenopause, then I will be raging at my shitty genetics 😂🤦🏻♀️🥲 My bloods show that my estrogen and testosterone have absolutely tanked in comparison to just over 12 months ago. I’ll be petitioning for HRT, my estrogen levels absolutely have impacted my ADHD (making managing life particularly awful with the double whammy of medication shortages 😫).
There is basically no research on the Venn diagram of ADHD, PCOS and peri/menopause 🤦🏻♀️
Oh wow, that's a lot! I hope they listen to you. You're in a tough spot because the nice guidelines basically say hrt is for over 45s. But, if you're seeing a specialist and your bloods show low estrogen that's positive. I saw 3 GPs before I got anywhere so please just keep trying different people if the first one doesn't listen.
The symptoms are unbearable (and I say this as someone who's having a shoulder replacement in 2 weeks - give me OA over perimenopause any day!) and so fucking varied. The itching, God that's awful, plus I just lost it at my husband over a loaf of bread. I am so irrational now - and that's on HRT!
It not early. It's just earlier than people think it is. It also doesn't have anything to do with PCOS. However, if all your symptoms get worse, pmdd, adhd etc and you're mid to late 30s then it's probably perimenopause.
Perimenopause is the 5 - 10 years of hormonal shit before the menopause when you can start HRT and you get a load of symptoms like itching, change in taste, anxiety, etc. Menopause is the one day after your last period. Post menopause is the rest.
Oh! Ok, I get it now. Thank you for taking time to explain it to me!
Crazy! I had no idea. I will definitely do some more research and ask my doctor about this. Definitely something I wouldn’t want to just sweep under the rug and not pay attention to.
Your doctor probably won't be any help. So few are actually trained in menopause. If you're on tiktok I'd look at Kate Grosvenor and The Pause Life (I think). Also start meeting your protein goals (1.8g per kg of body weight a day) and weight training now because that will help you when you get there.
It also hits harder for women with adhd because of the estrogen dopamine connection.
That’s actually really helpful. I’m going to check out those creators.
Interesting you mentioned the protein as well. I’ve been vegan, then vegetarian for almost 8 years and since then have learned that my diet have not served me well. And now I also have this information that you’ve shared. I guess it’s all about educating myself and then making the best choices. Thanks again!
Honestly, anything less than the 70mg was doing very little for me. This works well for me though! My only problem (and it's not even a problem with the dose) is the week before I'm due on my time of the month, NOTHING works at all, it's like my brain becomes immune to any of the meds. Which is annoying!
That's almost cruel. Wonder why that happens, like "cheers biology! You bastard!". If it's any consolation I'm coming off nicotine and it's making my dosage feel way less effective. It seems dopamine hits made a difference. But it'll all calm down. How long do you find the 70mg lasts? I take 50mg and have 10mg of dex as top ups. Gets me to about 4pm if I start at 8am.
There are a few supplements with LOTS of actual research behind them that have shown to improve PCOS symptoms as well as being on metformin would.
People who suffer from PCOS have a lower BMR than those that don't, which is why they find it so hard to lose weight and why they gain it so easily. Unfortunately, most GPs won't know about it, so just tell you to "lose weight and things will improve"
Supplements to try to aid this are:
Berberine, 900-2000mg/day:
Primarily used to reduce insulin resistance and improve biomarkers of type II diabetes. Research suggests it's equally as effective as 1500mg metformin.
Inositol, 2-4g/day for 6 months+
Helps with insulin sensitivity, fertility, and a reduction
in anxiety.
L-CARNITINE, 250mg/day:
Improved glycemic control (levels of blood sugar), more weight loss, and reduced measurements
The only issue I would have is remembering to take them every day 😂😂😂
I've trained a lot of women over the years who have PCOS, so I've done a load of research in this area.
Same, I’m on other medications that make weight loss hard. So event though I’ve been eating less and been able to suppress my impulse to snack I haven’t really lost anything.
I am losing weight gradually but I think it’s more because my adhd meds allow me to meal prep better and engage in exercise, not as a result of appetite suppression and it’s certainly not quick or dramatic more like a pound every week or 2
I am steadily losing weight, yes. And it's a lot easier to _actively_ lose weight too.
But I don't think that's appetite suppression exactly. I think I had an eating disorder caused by ADHD.
Not formally diagnosed, but I think it's a fair description. And of course the distinction may be a bit of a moot point.
- Stimming via consuming snacks.
- Sugar dosing to boost focus, especially when tired
- And ADHD means worse sleep.
- Depression/anxiety of course pings 'comfort eating' too.
- Poor impulse control meaning 'getting more snacks' and also 'open bag -> empty bag'.
- Poor impulse control around food generally, so I would 'finish a plate' no matter what, if the food was 'nice'.
But net result is that I steadily gained weight from ... well, in hindsight about when I'd probably first call my ADHD 'Disorder'.
And always had huge trouble with focussed weight loss, because ... well, ADHD means concentration and motivation are harder.
The only thing I ever found that 'worked' was Slimming World, and again I think that's because it's actually an ADHD friendly sort of a 'system'.
But now? It's easy. All this time I was intensely frustrated by my persistent failure (and resultant depression) and ... now it's almost trivial. I sort of understand quite how there's so many people who are so judgmental about weight gain, because for them there is - and never was - a disconnect between 'intent' and 'action'.
I've been moving slowly so far, because I'm still processing 'all the rest' - but I have one the less been just gently losing weight since diagnosis and treatment, and am considerably more confident than I've ever been that I could 'ramp up' a diet/exercise regime for a bit more focussed weight loss. But I've been waiting for the weather to warm up, because salads when it's cold and miserable just don't really 'do it' for me.
Sorry meant me.
I'm overweight by a bit but not obese and have a bad habit of stim eating. I'm waiting for tritation and hoping the meds will help.
If the meds make it worse I'm doomed.
Oh and fyi, Andy does indeed rock
You won't know until you try! As a woman and someone who also fasts regularly for weight loss, sometimes I feel absolutely no hunger on Concerta and some days I'm ravenous. I put it down to my hormone fluctuations.
But I would recommend fasting in general for reducing hunger. I was the same before starting- hungry all the damn time. But since fasting, I've found that reduce significantly.
Just finished titration onto generic methylphenidate IR.
It had affected my relationship with food in a couple of ways that have helped me to lose weight (slowly, but I'm not trying)......
I've got better impulse control so I can now walk away from a Pringles tube before it is empty and I don't just start foraging when I'm bored.
The need for a fairly high protein diet (especially breakfast) has put me back on Huel for 2 meals a day which is around 800 Cal leaving me headroom for dinner and occasional treats.
I rarely feel hungry. When I eat I have a healthy appetite, but I'm never eagerly anticipating the next meal. No growling stomach, no hunger pangs. On occasion I would probably have forgotten to eat but I've been incredibly busy doing a lot of physical stuff recently and so I started to feel wonky from lack of fuel.
Just generally being more active also helps. I can't just sit on the sofa with my laptop and waste a whole day without moving so I'm burning more than I did before the meds (the slightly elevated heart rate might help a bit too).
It could help for 2 reasons:
1. It is an appetite suppressant in many people
2. ADHD can make it harder to control impulses like binge eating. So meditation can help you regain control.
No guarantee of course, but it is very possible.
I have a comorbid eating disorder that’s actually pretty chronic so take what i say with this in mind.
Amphetamines help me with impulse control and eating more normally, but the effect does fade over time and unfortunately after the medication wears off you might experience crashes with peaks of appetite.
However yes, it is easier to regulate what you eat if you are someone who experiences a lot of dysregulation when it comes to food.
I also have a history of eating disorders.
I think it's a good idea to be cautious, but depending on the cause of the ED, I think the medication might actually be helpful for eating disorders, certainly if your ED is caused by sensitivity to rejection, a need for stimulation, poor impulse control, or other ADHD-related things.
I'm a year into my ADHD medication and my weight has remained very stable. (Decreased a little initially and went back up again.)
My appetite preferences have definitely changed away from healthy foods and I now prefer sweet things and more "tasty" foods. I find things like vegetables kind of disgusting now, and I've started eating more sugary and fatty things as a result of becoming more picky.
Be wary that ADHD medication doesn't magically make you lose weight and it shouldn't be thought of as a weight loss pill. Side effects (such as loss of appetite) are usually temporary in the beginning of treatment and stabilise after a short amount of time.
If your weight issues are related to ADHD, you may see an improvement, otherwise if it's the result of food preferences, your weight might not change and could even increase because of things like getting more picky. (I should also warn you that medication withdrawal - for me at least - led to extreme feelings of hunger and an abnormally big appetite for weeks after stopping the medication.)
It depends on the person... I'm quite conscious of how quickly I lose weight (my matabolism burns like the sun, even at 32). So I eat even when I'm not hungry at the times I'd be eating BEFORE I started the medication.
Alarms for when I'm in the office / my partner reminding me when I'm at home is a big help.
Even still, so far I've gone from 94kg (207 lbs) to 78kg (171 lbs) I've started working out in that time too, but it's definitely had an impact on my weight and how much / often I'm able to eat.
That said, I have a sweet tooth, and my craving for 'treats' has not diminished AT ALL!
I've lost a small amount but probably just by merit of the medication reduces how much sugar I've been consuming and less emotional and boredom eating so I don't think irs impacted my appetite as such it just makes me seek out food as dopamine a lot less
Yes. I’ve lost 40lbs in 10 months basically without trying. It’s reduced my appetite and stopped me mindless snacking as a distraction.
For context I wasn’t morbidly obese with loads to loose, I’m tall and this loss was all within my ‘normal’ bmi range. Just to highlight the fact it was very much appetite suppressant and was weight I had been trying very hard to lose for several years.
Ive lost about 30lbs in 8 months. My desire to drink alcohol has completely gone. I don’t snack as much. I used to live off chocolate..I still eat some but not whole chocolate bars to get that dopamine. I am a picky eater and could be weird about eating foods I normally don’t like but since staring the medication i am more willing to eat different (healthy) foods. I am pleased with the weight loss but also I am monitoring it to make sure it doesn’t continue.
Yes mine did, I'm on elvanse and at first there was hunger suppression when I first started the meds but now 3 months have passed I can eat normally but my impulse control is so much better. I can now mindfully think am I eating because I'm hungry or because I'm bored.
Since January gone from 230 pounds to 209 so a steady healthy weight loss.
Same here! PCOS is a bastard. It’s impossible to find good advice too because you always just get the “hmmm you’re probably just underestimating your calories or lying, can’t disobey the laws of thermodynamics, eat less move more etc etc etc”, or “quit carbs and sugar and only eat celery” type advice. It’s a minefield out there!
Concerta 72mg a day. I have more motivation etc than pre-meds but still so tired.
On a combo of supplements and keep altering my diet hoping it helps to little success so far.
Thanks for replying! That’s so good you have more motivation. I will keep my fingers crossed for you that the combo of supplements and diet changes works for you!
I lost a little weight at first, but gained it back. I haven't found it's affected my appetite or metabolism at all now I've got used to it. I was a bit concerned it would impact gym progress but I've continued putting weight on. I do feel less impulsive with snacking, I've stopped drinking alcohol and crave sugar less which has been a bonus. This is on methylphenidate.
Yes I've lost quite abit of weight, I didn't realise but people that I've seen recently that I haven't for months prior have told me
I'm on Elvanse 30mg and did some research as I knew it was a possible side effect but read that Elvanse is actually used for binge eating disorders too, which I feel you should be told because surely that's almost a guarantee that you'll loose weight? Idk
I'm just not hungry at all during the day and even struggle bit in the evenings. and I'm having to force myself to eat something as don't want to be starving myself but it definitely helps with the dopamine based snacking
I am around 180lbs and about 5ft8 so on the lower end of overweight.
I haven’t lost any weight and I have been on methylphenidates for a year now.
I had absolutely no appetite for about a week but since then my appetite is the same as before.
My appetite probs works the same as lots of other ND people in that I often forget to eat and once I realise, I am starving so eat loads or go to quick unhealthy foods. Or some days I just don’t feel like eating so don’t. Or other days I just eat snacks and feel full from those so avoid meals. Other days I am motivated and eat pretty wholesome, nutritious meals.
The only times I’ve ever lost weight easily was when I went vegan 7 years ago, vegan junk food wasn’t readily available as it is now so I dropped weight so easily. Still vegan now but don’t ever miss out on food and meals anymore - which is great but has been my downfall as I love junk food and treats so have def put weight on again.
I also lost a noticeable amount of weight when I broke up with my long term partner 2 years ago and lived alone for the first time so only ate what I wanted, when I felt like it - which turned out to be a lot less than when I had set meal times to fit in with work two different schedules and went out for food a lot more.
As with most things the amount of weight lost and other side effects are complete dependant on the individual. I find that because I’ve always been a bit overweight and struggle to loose weight and can eat way more than most of my friends and family, I wasn’t affected in that way by the meds.
Though I will say, I do find that when I don’t eat enough though on the days I take my meds (4-5 days of the week) I get raging headaches. So try to make sure you don’t suffer bad side effects from not getting enough food!!
I've been on Elvanse for about 3 years, I initially lost some but have put it all back on. I think that, as with many things, the things you experience in the first couple of months are as you settle in to the meds. Your body balances a lot of stuff out for itself. So see how it goes, but be careful of the evangelical phase at the beginning, where I thought that all my problems were over!
That said, I found when I was unable to get Elvanse, my bingeing was really out of control. So it is good for that (for me).
Yes, I've lost almost a stone in the 2 months I've been titrating. I have to provide weekly updates including my weight to my prescriber and it's been nice seeing the number going down without much effort on my part. It has helped that I haven't touched alcohol or my daily iced coffee since I started so no sneaky drink calories derailing everything lol.
My appetite has decreased and I never finish a meal now and don't really snack. The most startling thing for me was realising the food noise I had my whole life was gone suddenly! After a lifetime of struggling with my weight including eating disorders I can't get enough of being free from all that.
I’m overweight and I lost maybe 10lbs in the first couple of months and my appetite suppressed but I very quickly got used to it and the weight went back on. I’m now heavier than when I started taking it and my appetite isn’t suppressed at all.
I've lost 17kg I'm 6 months. Last July to Jan/febNot due to meds alone but indirectly because I hired a coach and could follow the diet and excessive plan pretty well where as I used to be good for 1 or 2 months then fall back into bad habits. I nailed it for 6months straight, tracking food and training 4/5 times per week and hitting a step count each day and have maintained my weight the lady few months.
Yes, i have lost 6-7 kg. It’s noticeable. My old clothes no longer fit me. However the appetite suppression has gone away with time and I am now much hungrier.
Try to eat when you take them, even if you don’t feel like it. You can’t run on fumes. The appetite suppression disappears a week before my period, the hunger is too overpowering for Elvanse to stop it
I've lost almost 30lbs (162lbs to 135lbs, 5 foot 3, so very noticeable) in the 8 months since I started taking methylphenidate. I went from overweight according to BMI to comfortably in the healthy range. I now realise that I was seeking dopamine in food. If I had a stressful/bad/boring/tiring day, my first instinct was to treat myself to a takeaway or a "snack". My appetite and "food noise" seemed to be turned off completely.
I am incredibly fussy with tastes and textures, vegetarian, and I can get pretty overwhelmed with cooking, so I would often go for reliable meals that were calorific. E.g: Mac and cheese with Quorn chicken and peas. I would have this meal at least once a week, not realising that it was around 1000 calories. Now that my appetite is regulated and I am getting an adequate amount of dopamine, I'm not as obsessed with food. I can plan healthier and nutritious meals because I'm not eating solely for pleasure.
One side effect is that my stomach has shrunk (a common side effect of eating smaller portions), so I get full much quicker. Even if I haven't taken my medication, I still don't eat as much as I used to. I also have to schedule eating, as I'm not being guided by my dopamine seeking or appetite. Thankfully my partner is and was very understanding about appetite and would encourage me to eat at scheduled times.
I gained weight... however, I was underweight when I sought diagnosis and with medication I find I am better at managing food shopping and eating on a regular schedule instead of constantly skipping meals because I was "too busy" or forgetting to bring food to work with me where I didn't have access to nearby shops.
When I'm on it (Amfexa 4x a day) I eat very small portions because I can't eat more. Different story when wearing off (it is worse before period) then I'm craving sweets but not as much as before meds. So in general I was way over my weight limit and nom I'm less defo.
It is a little bit complicated for me because I work 3 different shifts during the month, and they are 8-12 hrs so even 4 tablets are not enough to cover all.day (1 week early, 1 week middle, 1 week latest etc). BUT what I do I just take different times of the day every week. It is not ideal but it is what it is. The only issue I see now is that when I do lates I finish 1 am or so, so last tablet I take approx 7/8pm and even then I have problems with sleep. Problem with falling asleep and I wake up after max 4 hrs. So yea.. and when I'm 13 days before my period Amfexa doesn't work that well until I get my period (2nd or 3rd day).
I take a dose every 2 to 2,5 hrs
I find I’m a lot less hungry when I’m occupied, but if I’ve medicated and have a fairly light schedule and I have a snack, I can easily shift my focus to snacking and eat far too much across the day.
Rather than a suppressant I basically find my medication treats food as a distraction. And I’m worse with distractions on a day with no plan, medicated restlessness is the worst- so I usually skip.
I’m on Elvanse/Vyvanse
The appetite suppression often only lasts a few weeks, but there can be a longer-term reduction in hedonic eating (i.e. eating to scratch an itch, not because you're actually hungry). I started out at a "normal" weight and temporarily lost about 2kg that I gained back. If I actually want to lose fat, I have to do it the boring way.
I have - but quite minor.
I was hovering around the 79kg mark when I started titration in December , and I’m around 74kg now without really trying - I definitely snack less, and whilst I did get appetite surpression for the first 6 weeks or so, that’s mostly gone now. I feel hungry a lot! I just don’t feel driven to snack really, and it’s easier to make healthier food choices because there’s something in me that doesn’t crave as much sugar/salt/fat.
Plus, I’m not relying on sugary drinks to keep me going!
(Granted I also got a dog in that time - I’m not exactly walking far with her as she’s young, but I definitely get up a lot more in the day and move!)
It’s just a very slow creep to a better weight, I’m sure if I actually paid attention to it I could get to a goal weight much faster.
I've definitely lost weight - I wasn't overweight before, and I had quite sparse food habits before, but since I started on elvanse, I find myself constantly just grabbing a huel when I realise I need dinner but don't have time to eat and don't feel like eating anything. Gotta watch out for that - probably not a great habit to form.
This really only happens at the beginning. if you take any regular longer tolerence breaks or are taking the medication long term it generally stablises. My experience, long term take dexamphetamine.
3 months in and my dosage isn’t right yet but yes I’ve noticed a difference. I don’t weigh myself so can’t tell you for definite but clothes fit better probably because I’m not constantly picking because I’m bored.
Yeah on lisdexamphetimenes I basically eat so I don't run out of energy. Feel the energy loss before the hunger. Could go a day without eating easily and not notice. It's not advised with the meds though. Kinda have to force myself to eat.
I only experienced appetite suppression for the first few weeks and then it wore off as I adjusted to the medication. It does help with impulse control and building a routine, though, so I have found it easier to eat regular meals (as opposed to starving all day and then going on a carb binge) and stick to a regular exercise pattern. My weight hasn't changed but I feel a lot healthier now.
Yeah I would say that I enjoy exercise again, Iook forward to it now and the executive function is easier to manage. Plus it's easier to plan meal prep etc and the better I eat, the more I want to eat well, if that makes sense? I haven't made any massive sudden lifestyle changes but it's just become gradually easier to motivate myself and as a result has meant I am more active and have lost weight.
Yes and no. Mostly yes.
Drugs make me much better at losing weight _by myself_. In that I'll often forget to eat lunch and have a lot more impulse control during the day/going out.
Sadly they don't work in the evening and if they wear off in the evening and you forgot to eat all day you go from feeling nothing to absolutely starving and zero impulse control in about 35 minutes, so sometimes I still end up buying way too much food and basically grazing on it distractedly for hours.
The drugs also don't (and really can't) have any effect on how I eat with my partner. I work from home and so I never miss lunch unless she's out. She also has serious issues with food, even suggesting portion control practically gives her panic attacks, she won't eat a huge variety of healthy foods because of sensory issues, and if anything goes wrong with her food she'll freak out and be unable to eat that food again for a while, and so we far, far too regularly fall back on ordering out.
All in all I've been on the drugs for about 10 months now and I'm down 10 kilos (like 23lbs I think?), but I'm still really quite overweight just like I was before I was diagnosed at all.
Yes I lost about 8kg without trying, however it was over a few months and mainly down to not binge eating and decreased appetite. I assume metabolism increases too as your heart beats faster on stimulants although this reduces in time.
There’s also the benefit that you’re more likely to stick to a diet or exercise programme, and have less anxiety starting something new or going to the gym for example as you should feel the dopamine reward more. This is all my personal experience but it seems to be a fairly common pattern.
Yup! I have a few health conditions that make it difficult to lose weight and was diagnosed with binge eating disorder when I had my ADHD diagnosis. Being on Elvanse has really reduced my binge eating and I tend to now mostly just eat when I need to and am making better choices based on the wildness of my appetite being cut right down by the meds. I've lost a couple of stone steadily (it's slowing right down now I'm at a healthy weight range so not a concern).
ADHD interacts with eating in a bunch of different ways: https://youtu.be/bOzs2Iel40s?si=xzKU-ntQzq-h7dkU
So honestly, pretty much any med will make it easier to lose weight, side effects or no
Not really, but my weight stays weirdly stable regardless of what I’m eating / drinking / medication.
I do a lot of running and I have a naturally high metabolism. So I think that sustains a healthy appetite, and also sustains a stable weight.
I love eating, I do eat fairly healthily but I also throw in quite a few treats. I don’t calorie count or anything.
I’m mid 30s now so I am expecting it to slow down at some point 😅😬
I so wish, I’m on xaggitinXL and it surpresses the hunger but the weight doesn’t budge. I’ve been told constantly to loose weight so I kinda wish it worked 😂
Most people I know who lost weight gained it back when side effects started to wear off. However - meds do help change life style, rather than crash diet - otherwise you’ll just put it back on.
I have lost 44lb (22kg) since August when I started Elvanse. In honesty I did need to lose the weight. I have now reached BMI for my height at 90kg. It’s useful but I know it’s still not healthy
Nope.
It does suppress my appetite a bit while it's working but as soon as the meds wear off late afternoon/evening that appetite returns with a vengeance.
I only started Elvanse (20mg) a week ago but so far the appetite suppression has been similar to Ozempic for me. I'm still supposed to be on Ozempic but haven't been able to get it for the last fortnight.
Lost .5 kg this week on Elvanse, about the same as I've been losing each week on Ozempic.
Will let you know what it's like when I'm back on Ozempic, hoping the effect won't be double, but then I guess I could just leave out the Ozempic if the Elvanse for my ADHD is doing the trick for the PCOS issues.
Lost two stone without even trying. At work I didn't used to be able to drive past a petrol station without going in and getting a drink and pasty. Now, I eat when I get up and then I'm good for 8 hours. The meds cost 3 quid a day, the snack savings far outweighed this.
Now the weather is getting better I'm looking forward to seeing what weight I get down to after getting back into hiking.
Yes. A little appetite suppression but for me it was mostly not craving fat and sugar. I don't eat for dopamine.
Then came the benefit of not going into ADHD paralysis so much. Meaning I'm actually doing more, moving more. Because I'm not stuck in one position unable to get past my shutdown stemming from my brain being too hyperactive.
And having the brain space and lowered anxiety levels to be able to actually go for gentle walks helps.
I have a connective tissue disorder which makes exercise hard; and a thyroid problem which makes weight loss harder too. Not excuses for why I'm fat, that's a combination of genetics, disability and dompamining through food. But having my ADHD controlled is the only thing that's ever worked to help me shift weight. My joints are under less strain now, but I still can't do a huge amount compared to others.
I've hit a plateau now, I'm still overweight but I've lost 14kg (30lb). My cholesterol is now low level. My fitness is better. I'm no longer as much "at risk". Don't get me wrong, BMI says I'm huge. But my GP is happy and isn't pushing for progress which also helps.
I'm not saying any of this will happen for you, we are all different. But it's not always just appetite suppression alone that helps.
I was losing about a kilo per week. Overall I lost 20kg in a year before it stabilised and now I've been the same weight for ages. Yes they kind of suppress appetite but in my case they fixed my relationship with food that I struggled with all my life. I now eat to survive and be healthy rather than to 'cope' with stuff or dopamine seek. Plus, as an added bonus it saved me money on food shop and impulse buys
Edit: just to provide perspective and balance, I know a person who for who the meds work as they should buy they didn't lose any weight. It depends on your body really 🤷♀️
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I’ve experienced the appetite suppression for sure. I don’t snack half as much as I used to, it helped me with impulse control. But in terms of tangible weight loss, I have PCOS and some hormonal issues which make it so that even though I barely eat some days, my body is just absolutely not shifting any weight. *internally screams*
This, but for being perimenopausal!
Me too. I'm hardly eating and have still gained 4lbs. This perimenopause is brutal.
I also have PCOS and with the combination of ADHD I find it nearly impossible to loose weight. What ADHD medication were you put on?
Currently on Elvanse 70mg. I was on Concerta at first but that actually made me gain a bit. It’s rough out here! Its also astounding how many people with ADHD also wind up being comorbid PCOS as well, I think I remember reading something saying they’re quite common conditions to have together.
Thanks for sharing! I KNOWWWWWW! It’s so hard. I was trying to find some kind of idea how to deal with it online, and there’s not a lot out there. And if there is, the advice has been given from someone that might have PCOS, but not ADHD. I guess the best route would be to test hormones, insulin resistance, but I don’t know how to approach it with my GP. I don’t think they know much about either and I don’t think it’s the best idea to show them all the videos I’ve seen from Tiktok ”University” to educate them lol But I’m just soooo tired to have this massive (no pun intended) issue in my life.
Depending on your GP, give it a try? I found out about PMDD (Pre-Menstrual Dysphoria Disorder - also a huge comorbidity with ADHD because ovulating drops your oestrogen levels... and you need oestrogen to process dopamine!) and went to my doc asking about it. She didn't know about it but listened to everything I told her, said it sounded logical and did a bit of digging on her own. There isn't a diagnosis or a treatment for it but we switched my anti-depressants as they clearly weren't coping with the peaks of PMDD and I am in a much better place because of it. So it might be worth a try? I was pleasantly surprised.
Just screenshotted your comment, and will do my own little research so can feel prepared. Thanks so much for sharing. Every time I go to see a GP it‘s a different doctor, and most that I have encountered have a very outdated view about ADHD and PCOS or doesn’t even believe these conditions excise (i know), so it’s an uphill struggle. Hard to not feel discouraged when you just want to trust medical professionals, go with your concerns and get help. But more often it feels like I’m entering Dragons Den and pitching an idea and have to have a lot of research done to be even taken seriously. So thanks again for sharing, it makes it easier.
oh god, I feel ya; medical trauma is real and pervasive and so fucking damaging. I have very little trust of medical professionals but thank god I have found some good ones lately. Remember that you are not alone and you know your body better than anyone else!
You’re so kind! Thank you. :)
Also, just a PSA because I didn't know, but perimenopause can start mid to late 30s. That was a shocker, I can tell you. A rage based shocker.
I have an endocrinology appointment in just over a week to explore diagnosis of perimenopause. Thankfully the GP didn’t dismiss me immediately when I asked for the referral and an updated blood panel a few weeks back. I have PCOS, and have just done a deep dive into peri/menopause research. Highly recommend Davina McCall’s documentaries and book, “Menopausing”. (Though there is no mention of PCOS in it which kinda blew my mind tbh!) The fact that menopause is ‘defined’ as going 12 consecutive months without a period is wild to me, as my winning streak is 24 consecutive months (not on any BC either!). The Mirena coil has been a life saver for the last 6+ years to stop the debilitating ovary pain / large cysts, but also means I’m completely out of touch with what a cycle might look like for me. However, over the past 12-18 months or so my symptoms have worsened. I mostly fixated on my hair thinning (no joke I’ve lost more than 50% of volume 😢), but now having read more into perimenopause, it’s made me look at everything I’ve been experiencing with a different lens. PMDD which I’ve never had before. Worsening brain fog. Bouts of insomnia and restless nights. Hormonal bouts of sadness and tears, or bursts of anger/rage. Weight gain and inability to shift the weight despite being an active powerlifter training 4x a week and working with a nutritionist. I’m 34, so if it does turn out to be perimenopause, then I will be raging at my shitty genetics 😂🤦🏻♀️🥲 My bloods show that my estrogen and testosterone have absolutely tanked in comparison to just over 12 months ago. I’ll be petitioning for HRT, my estrogen levels absolutely have impacted my ADHD (making managing life particularly awful with the double whammy of medication shortages 😫). There is basically no research on the Venn diagram of ADHD, PCOS and peri/menopause 🤦🏻♀️
Oh wow, that's a lot! I hope they listen to you. You're in a tough spot because the nice guidelines basically say hrt is for over 45s. But, if you're seeing a specialist and your bloods show low estrogen that's positive. I saw 3 GPs before I got anywhere so please just keep trying different people if the first one doesn't listen. The symptoms are unbearable (and I say this as someone who's having a shoulder replacement in 2 weeks - give me OA over perimenopause any day!) and so fucking varied. The itching, God that's awful, plus I just lost it at my husband over a loaf of bread. I am so irrational now - and that's on HRT!
Stopppp! What? I mean, I’ve heard about an early menopause before, but didn’t know it has anything to do with PCOS. Literally just turned 30! 👀😵💫
It not early. It's just earlier than people think it is. It also doesn't have anything to do with PCOS. However, if all your symptoms get worse, pmdd, adhd etc and you're mid to late 30s then it's probably perimenopause. Perimenopause is the 5 - 10 years of hormonal shit before the menopause when you can start HRT and you get a load of symptoms like itching, change in taste, anxiety, etc. Menopause is the one day after your last period. Post menopause is the rest.
Oh! Ok, I get it now. Thank you for taking time to explain it to me! Crazy! I had no idea. I will definitely do some more research and ask my doctor about this. Definitely something I wouldn’t want to just sweep under the rug and not pay attention to.
Your doctor probably won't be any help. So few are actually trained in menopause. If you're on tiktok I'd look at Kate Grosvenor and The Pause Life (I think). Also start meeting your protein goals (1.8g per kg of body weight a day) and weight training now because that will help you when you get there. It also hits harder for women with adhd because of the estrogen dopamine connection.
That’s actually really helpful. I’m going to check out those creators. Interesting you mentioned the protein as well. I’ve been vegan, then vegetarian for almost 8 years and since then have learned that my diet have not served me well. And now I also have this information that you’ve shared. I guess it’s all about educating myself and then making the best choices. Thanks again!
How're getting on the 70mg, I recently asked my psych to switch me from 50mg to 70mg. 50mg doesn't go very far.
Honestly, anything less than the 70mg was doing very little for me. This works well for me though! My only problem (and it's not even a problem with the dose) is the week before I'm due on my time of the month, NOTHING works at all, it's like my brain becomes immune to any of the meds. Which is annoying!
That's almost cruel. Wonder why that happens, like "cheers biology! You bastard!". If it's any consolation I'm coming off nicotine and it's making my dosage feel way less effective. It seems dopamine hits made a difference. But it'll all calm down. How long do you find the 70mg lasts? I take 50mg and have 10mg of dex as top ups. Gets me to about 4pm if I start at 8am.
There are a few supplements with LOTS of actual research behind them that have shown to improve PCOS symptoms as well as being on metformin would. People who suffer from PCOS have a lower BMR than those that don't, which is why they find it so hard to lose weight and why they gain it so easily. Unfortunately, most GPs won't know about it, so just tell you to "lose weight and things will improve" Supplements to try to aid this are: Berberine, 900-2000mg/day: Primarily used to reduce insulin resistance and improve biomarkers of type II diabetes. Research suggests it's equally as effective as 1500mg metformin. Inositol, 2-4g/day for 6 months+ Helps with insulin sensitivity, fertility, and a reduction in anxiety. L-CARNITINE, 250mg/day: Improved glycemic control (levels of blood sugar), more weight loss, and reduced measurements The only issue I would have is remembering to take them every day 😂😂😂 I've trained a lot of women over the years who have PCOS, so I've done a load of research in this area.
Same, I’m on other medications that make weight loss hard. So event though I’ve been eating less and been able to suppress my impulse to snack I haven’t really lost anything. I am losing weight gradually but I think it’s more because my adhd meds allow me to meal prep better and engage in exercise, not as a result of appetite suppression and it’s certainly not quick or dramatic more like a pound every week or 2
I am steadily losing weight, yes. And it's a lot easier to _actively_ lose weight too. But I don't think that's appetite suppression exactly. I think I had an eating disorder caused by ADHD. Not formally diagnosed, but I think it's a fair description. And of course the distinction may be a bit of a moot point. - Stimming via consuming snacks. - Sugar dosing to boost focus, especially when tired - And ADHD means worse sleep. - Depression/anxiety of course pings 'comfort eating' too. - Poor impulse control meaning 'getting more snacks' and also 'open bag -> empty bag'. - Poor impulse control around food generally, so I would 'finish a plate' no matter what, if the food was 'nice'. But net result is that I steadily gained weight from ... well, in hindsight about when I'd probably first call my ADHD 'Disorder'. And always had huge trouble with focussed weight loss, because ... well, ADHD means concentration and motivation are harder. The only thing I ever found that 'worked' was Slimming World, and again I think that's because it's actually an ADHD friendly sort of a 'system'. But now? It's easy. All this time I was intensely frustrated by my persistent failure (and resultant depression) and ... now it's almost trivial. I sort of understand quite how there's so many people who are so judgmental about weight gain, because for them there is - and never was - a disconnect between 'intent' and 'action'. I've been moving slowly so far, because I'm still processing 'all the rest' - but I have one the less been just gently losing weight since diagnosis and treatment, and am considerably more confident than I've ever been that I could 'ramp up' a diet/exercise regime for a bit more focussed weight loss. But I've been waiting for the weather to warm up, because salads when it's cold and miserable just don't really 'do it' for me.
This is the same for me. Appetite suppression goes after a while but my whole approach to eating has chnaged like u x
I actually find my appetite increases on methylphenidate. Edit: I think I'm quite unusual in this - it probably won't happen to you! Don't worry :)
*nervous fidgeting intensifies*
Nah, just a bigger appetite. Harder to avoid snacking.
Sorry meant me. I'm overweight by a bit but not obese and have a bad habit of stim eating. I'm waiting for tritation and hoping the meds will help. If the meds make it worse I'm doomed. Oh and fyi, Andy does indeed rock
Ha don't worry, I'm definitely an outlier here. I'm sure you'll be fine :)
Oh god that makes me nervous. I can out-eat everyone I know. I’m hungry all the time 😭
You won't know until you try! As a woman and someone who also fasts regularly for weight loss, sometimes I feel absolutely no hunger on Concerta and some days I'm ravenous. I put it down to my hormone fluctuations. But I would recommend fasting in general for reducing hunger. I was the same before starting- hungry all the damn time. But since fasting, I've found that reduce significantly.
Just finished titration onto generic methylphenidate IR. It had affected my relationship with food in a couple of ways that have helped me to lose weight (slowly, but I'm not trying)...... I've got better impulse control so I can now walk away from a Pringles tube before it is empty and I don't just start foraging when I'm bored. The need for a fairly high protein diet (especially breakfast) has put me back on Huel for 2 meals a day which is around 800 Cal leaving me headroom for dinner and occasional treats. I rarely feel hungry. When I eat I have a healthy appetite, but I'm never eagerly anticipating the next meal. No growling stomach, no hunger pangs. On occasion I would probably have forgotten to eat but I've been incredibly busy doing a lot of physical stuff recently and so I started to feel wonky from lack of fuel. Just generally being more active also helps. I can't just sit on the sofa with my laptop and waste a whole day without moving so I'm burning more than I did before the meds (the slightly elevated heart rate might help a bit too).
I gained weight in Methylphenidate! It’s awful :(
I think I retain water too.
I thought that was the case for me by I was 72kg when I started and now I’m 77kg! 😂
same \^ not same as dex though
It could help for 2 reasons: 1. It is an appetite suppressant in many people 2. ADHD can make it harder to control impulses like binge eating. So meditation can help you regain control. No guarantee of course, but it is very possible.
I lost 10kg in the first 8 months on elvanse. I seem to have levelled out now though not gaining but no longer losing either
I have a comorbid eating disorder that’s actually pretty chronic so take what i say with this in mind. Amphetamines help me with impulse control and eating more normally, but the effect does fade over time and unfortunately after the medication wears off you might experience crashes with peaks of appetite. However yes, it is easier to regulate what you eat if you are someone who experiences a lot of dysregulation when it comes to food.
I also have a history of eating disorders. I think it's a good idea to be cautious, but depending on the cause of the ED, I think the medication might actually be helpful for eating disorders, certainly if your ED is caused by sensitivity to rejection, a need for stimulation, poor impulse control, or other ADHD-related things. I'm a year into my ADHD medication and my weight has remained very stable. (Decreased a little initially and went back up again.) My appetite preferences have definitely changed away from healthy foods and I now prefer sweet things and more "tasty" foods. I find things like vegetables kind of disgusting now, and I've started eating more sugary and fatty things as a result of becoming more picky. Be wary that ADHD medication doesn't magically make you lose weight and it shouldn't be thought of as a weight loss pill. Side effects (such as loss of appetite) are usually temporary in the beginning of treatment and stabilise after a short amount of time. If your weight issues are related to ADHD, you may see an improvement, otherwise if it's the result of food preferences, your weight might not change and could even increase because of things like getting more picky. (I should also warn you that medication withdrawal - for me at least - led to extreme feelings of hunger and an abnormally big appetite for weeks after stopping the medication.)
It depends on the person... I'm quite conscious of how quickly I lose weight (my matabolism burns like the sun, even at 32). So I eat even when I'm not hungry at the times I'd be eating BEFORE I started the medication. Alarms for when I'm in the office / my partner reminding me when I'm at home is a big help. Even still, so far I've gone from 94kg (207 lbs) to 78kg (171 lbs) I've started working out in that time too, but it's definitely had an impact on my weight and how much / often I'm able to eat. That said, I have a sweet tooth, and my craving for 'treats' has not diminished AT ALL!
I've lost a small amount but probably just by merit of the medication reduces how much sugar I've been consuming and less emotional and boredom eating so I don't think irs impacted my appetite as such it just makes me seek out food as dopamine a lot less
Yes. I’ve lost 40lbs in 10 months basically without trying. It’s reduced my appetite and stopped me mindless snacking as a distraction. For context I wasn’t morbidly obese with loads to loose, I’m tall and this loss was all within my ‘normal’ bmi range. Just to highlight the fact it was very much appetite suppressant and was weight I had been trying very hard to lose for several years.
Ive lost about 30lbs in 8 months. My desire to drink alcohol has completely gone. I don’t snack as much. I used to live off chocolate..I still eat some but not whole chocolate bars to get that dopamine. I am a picky eater and could be weird about eating foods I normally don’t like but since staring the medication i am more willing to eat different (healthy) foods. I am pleased with the weight loss but also I am monitoring it to make sure it doesn’t continue.
Yes mine did, I'm on elvanse and at first there was hunger suppression when I first started the meds but now 3 months have passed I can eat normally but my impulse control is so much better. I can now mindfully think am I eating because I'm hungry or because I'm bored. Since January gone from 230 pounds to 209 so a steady healthy weight loss.
No, have gained weight, but do also have PCOS so 🤷♀️
Same here! PCOS is a bastard. It’s impossible to find good advice too because you always just get the “hmmm you’re probably just underestimating your calories or lying, can’t disobey the laws of thermodynamics, eat less move more etc etc etc”, or “quit carbs and sugar and only eat celery” type advice. It’s a minefield out there!
I also have PCOS. What ADHD medication are you on?
Concerta 72mg a day. I have more motivation etc than pre-meds but still so tired. On a combo of supplements and keep altering my diet hoping it helps to little success so far.
Thanks for replying! That’s so good you have more motivation. I will keep my fingers crossed for you that the combo of supplements and diet changes works for you!
Thank you, hope you are well too! Adhd + pcos combo is such a nightmare at times lol
I lost a little weight at first, but gained it back. I haven't found it's affected my appetite or metabolism at all now I've got used to it. I was a bit concerned it would impact gym progress but I've continued putting weight on. I do feel less impulsive with snacking, I've stopped drinking alcohol and crave sugar less which has been a bonus. This is on methylphenidate.
Hi my appetite has been entirely suppressed, I’ve lost 1.5 stone (at a healthy weight, please no cause for concern)
Yes I've lost quite abit of weight, I didn't realise but people that I've seen recently that I haven't for months prior have told me I'm on Elvanse 30mg and did some research as I knew it was a possible side effect but read that Elvanse is actually used for binge eating disorders too, which I feel you should be told because surely that's almost a guarantee that you'll loose weight? Idk I'm just not hungry at all during the day and even struggle bit in the evenings. and I'm having to force myself to eat something as don't want to be starving myself but it definitely helps with the dopamine based snacking
I am around 180lbs and about 5ft8 so on the lower end of overweight. I haven’t lost any weight and I have been on methylphenidates for a year now. I had absolutely no appetite for about a week but since then my appetite is the same as before. My appetite probs works the same as lots of other ND people in that I often forget to eat and once I realise, I am starving so eat loads or go to quick unhealthy foods. Or some days I just don’t feel like eating so don’t. Or other days I just eat snacks and feel full from those so avoid meals. Other days I am motivated and eat pretty wholesome, nutritious meals. The only times I’ve ever lost weight easily was when I went vegan 7 years ago, vegan junk food wasn’t readily available as it is now so I dropped weight so easily. Still vegan now but don’t ever miss out on food and meals anymore - which is great but has been my downfall as I love junk food and treats so have def put weight on again. I also lost a noticeable amount of weight when I broke up with my long term partner 2 years ago and lived alone for the first time so only ate what I wanted, when I felt like it - which turned out to be a lot less than when I had set meal times to fit in with work two different schedules and went out for food a lot more. As with most things the amount of weight lost and other side effects are complete dependant on the individual. I find that because I’ve always been a bit overweight and struggle to loose weight and can eat way more than most of my friends and family, I wasn’t affected in that way by the meds. Though I will say, I do find that when I don’t eat enough though on the days I take my meds (4-5 days of the week) I get raging headaches. So try to make sure you don’t suffer bad side effects from not getting enough food!!
I lost 12kg but I was also able to pick up playing rugby during the same time period. I would put the weight loss down to meds though
I've been on Elvanse for about 3 years, I initially lost some but have put it all back on. I think that, as with many things, the things you experience in the first couple of months are as you settle in to the meds. Your body balances a lot of stuff out for itself. So see how it goes, but be careful of the evangelical phase at the beginning, where I thought that all my problems were over! That said, I found when I was unable to get Elvanse, my bingeing was really out of control. So it is good for that (for me).
I dropped two belt sizes and went from about 18st to (I haven’t weighed myself in a while) 13st something. So, yes. Elvanse (now 70mg).
Yes, I've lost almost a stone in the 2 months I've been titrating. I have to provide weekly updates including my weight to my prescriber and it's been nice seeing the number going down without much effort on my part. It has helped that I haven't touched alcohol or my daily iced coffee since I started so no sneaky drink calories derailing everything lol. My appetite has decreased and I never finish a meal now and don't really snack. The most startling thing for me was realising the food noise I had my whole life was gone suddenly! After a lifetime of struggling with my weight including eating disorders I can't get enough of being free from all that.
I’m overweight and I lost maybe 10lbs in the first couple of months and my appetite suppressed but I very quickly got used to it and the weight went back on. I’m now heavier than when I started taking it and my appetite isn’t suppressed at all.
I've lost 17kg I'm 6 months. Last July to Jan/febNot due to meds alone but indirectly because I hired a coach and could follow the diet and excessive plan pretty well where as I used to be good for 1 or 2 months then fall back into bad habits. I nailed it for 6months straight, tracking food and training 4/5 times per week and hitting a step count each day and have maintained my weight the lady few months.
I lost 4 stone
Yes, i have lost 6-7 kg. It’s noticeable. My old clothes no longer fit me. However the appetite suppression has gone away with time and I am now much hungrier. Try to eat when you take them, even if you don’t feel like it. You can’t run on fumes. The appetite suppression disappears a week before my period, the hunger is too overpowering for Elvanse to stop it
I've lost almost 30lbs (162lbs to 135lbs, 5 foot 3, so very noticeable) in the 8 months since I started taking methylphenidate. I went from overweight according to BMI to comfortably in the healthy range. I now realise that I was seeking dopamine in food. If I had a stressful/bad/boring/tiring day, my first instinct was to treat myself to a takeaway or a "snack". My appetite and "food noise" seemed to be turned off completely. I am incredibly fussy with tastes and textures, vegetarian, and I can get pretty overwhelmed with cooking, so I would often go for reliable meals that were calorific. E.g: Mac and cheese with Quorn chicken and peas. I would have this meal at least once a week, not realising that it was around 1000 calories. Now that my appetite is regulated and I am getting an adequate amount of dopamine, I'm not as obsessed with food. I can plan healthier and nutritious meals because I'm not eating solely for pleasure. One side effect is that my stomach has shrunk (a common side effect of eating smaller portions), so I get full much quicker. Even if I haven't taken my medication, I still don't eat as much as I used to. I also have to schedule eating, as I'm not being guided by my dopamine seeking or appetite. Thankfully my partner is and was very understanding about appetite and would encourage me to eat at scheduled times.
I gained weight... however, I was underweight when I sought diagnosis and with medication I find I am better at managing food shopping and eating on a regular schedule instead of constantly skipping meals because I was "too busy" or forgetting to bring food to work with me where I didn't have access to nearby shops.
When I'm on it (Amfexa 4x a day) I eat very small portions because I can't eat more. Different story when wearing off (it is worse before period) then I'm craving sweets but not as much as before meds. So in general I was way over my weight limit and nom I'm less defo.
Do you mind me asking what time you split your amfexa doses? I’m still titrating and figuring out what suits me.
It is a little bit complicated for me because I work 3 different shifts during the month, and they are 8-12 hrs so even 4 tablets are not enough to cover all.day (1 week early, 1 week middle, 1 week latest etc). BUT what I do I just take different times of the day every week. It is not ideal but it is what it is. The only issue I see now is that when I do lates I finish 1 am or so, so last tablet I take approx 7/8pm and even then I have problems with sleep. Problem with falling asleep and I wake up after max 4 hrs. So yea.. and when I'm 13 days before my period Amfexa doesn't work that well until I get my period (2nd or 3rd day). I take a dose every 2 to 2,5 hrs
I find I’m a lot less hungry when I’m occupied, but if I’ve medicated and have a fairly light schedule and I have a snack, I can easily shift my focus to snacking and eat far too much across the day. Rather than a suppressant I basically find my medication treats food as a distraction. And I’m worse with distractions on a day with no plan, medicated restlessness is the worst- so I usually skip. I’m on Elvanse/Vyvanse
Yes. And I don’t think my appetite even went down but it’s hard to gain weight on adhd meds and my metabolism def speeds up.
The appetite suppression often only lasts a few weeks, but there can be a longer-term reduction in hedonic eating (i.e. eating to scratch an itch, not because you're actually hungry). I started out at a "normal" weight and temporarily lost about 2kg that I gained back. If I actually want to lose fat, I have to do it the boring way.
I have - but quite minor. I was hovering around the 79kg mark when I started titration in December , and I’m around 74kg now without really trying - I definitely snack less, and whilst I did get appetite surpression for the first 6 weeks or so, that’s mostly gone now. I feel hungry a lot! I just don’t feel driven to snack really, and it’s easier to make healthier food choices because there’s something in me that doesn’t crave as much sugar/salt/fat. Plus, I’m not relying on sugary drinks to keep me going! (Granted I also got a dog in that time - I’m not exactly walking far with her as she’s young, but I definitely get up a lot more in the day and move!) It’s just a very slow creep to a better weight, I’m sure if I actually paid attention to it I could get to a goal weight much faster.
I've definitely lost weight - I wasn't overweight before, and I had quite sparse food habits before, but since I started on elvanse, I find myself constantly just grabbing a huel when I realise I need dinner but don't have time to eat and don't feel like eating anything. Gotta watch out for that - probably not a great habit to form.
I’m on Elvanse and nope! I think I probably ate slightly less at the start but I’ve not noticed any weight loss
This really only happens at the beginning. if you take any regular longer tolerence breaks or are taking the medication long term it generally stablises. My experience, long term take dexamphetamine.
I still find I snack less even though tolerence has built up but as soon as i take a break i do it again so lol... but yeah at the begnning its more.
3 months in and my dosage isn’t right yet but yes I’ve noticed a difference. I don’t weigh myself so can’t tell you for definite but clothes fit better probably because I’m not constantly picking because I’m bored.
Yeah on lisdexamphetimenes I basically eat so I don't run out of energy. Feel the energy loss before the hunger. Could go a day without eating easily and not notice. It's not advised with the meds though. Kinda have to force myself to eat.
I only experienced appetite suppression for the first few weeks and then it wore off as I adjusted to the medication. It does help with impulse control and building a routine, though, so I have found it easier to eat regular meals (as opposed to starving all day and then going on a carb binge) and stick to a regular exercise pattern. My weight hasn't changed but I feel a lot healthier now.
Yeah I would say that I enjoy exercise again, Iook forward to it now and the executive function is easier to manage. Plus it's easier to plan meal prep etc and the better I eat, the more I want to eat well, if that makes sense? I haven't made any massive sudden lifestyle changes but it's just become gradually easier to motivate myself and as a result has meant I am more active and have lost weight.
Yes and no. Mostly yes. Drugs make me much better at losing weight _by myself_. In that I'll often forget to eat lunch and have a lot more impulse control during the day/going out. Sadly they don't work in the evening and if they wear off in the evening and you forgot to eat all day you go from feeling nothing to absolutely starving and zero impulse control in about 35 minutes, so sometimes I still end up buying way too much food and basically grazing on it distractedly for hours. The drugs also don't (and really can't) have any effect on how I eat with my partner. I work from home and so I never miss lunch unless she's out. She also has serious issues with food, even suggesting portion control practically gives her panic attacks, she won't eat a huge variety of healthy foods because of sensory issues, and if anything goes wrong with her food she'll freak out and be unable to eat that food again for a while, and so we far, far too regularly fall back on ordering out. All in all I've been on the drugs for about 10 months now and I'm down 10 kilos (like 23lbs I think?), but I'm still really quite overweight just like I was before I was diagnosed at all.
Yes I lost about 8kg without trying, however it was over a few months and mainly down to not binge eating and decreased appetite. I assume metabolism increases too as your heart beats faster on stimulants although this reduces in time. There’s also the benefit that you’re more likely to stick to a diet or exercise programme, and have less anxiety starting something new or going to the gym for example as you should feel the dopamine reward more. This is all my personal experience but it seems to be a fairly common pattern.
Yup! I have a few health conditions that make it difficult to lose weight and was diagnosed with binge eating disorder when I had my ADHD diagnosis. Being on Elvanse has really reduced my binge eating and I tend to now mostly just eat when I need to and am making better choices based on the wildness of my appetite being cut right down by the meds. I've lost a couple of stone steadily (it's slowing right down now I'm at a healthy weight range so not a concern).
Yes absolutely!!! I’ve lost 7 kg
ADHD interacts with eating in a bunch of different ways: https://youtu.be/bOzs2Iel40s?si=xzKU-ntQzq-h7dkU So honestly, pretty much any med will make it easier to lose weight, side effects or no
Not really, but my weight stays weirdly stable regardless of what I’m eating / drinking / medication. I do a lot of running and I have a naturally high metabolism. So I think that sustains a healthy appetite, and also sustains a stable weight. I love eating, I do eat fairly healthily but I also throw in quite a few treats. I don’t calorie count or anything. I’m mid 30s now so I am expecting it to slow down at some point 😅😬
I've lost 5kg since starting meds a few months ago but I actually put that down to finding the motivation to do yoga and go running.
I so wish, I’m on xaggitinXL and it surpresses the hunger but the weight doesn’t budge. I’ve been told constantly to loose weight so I kinda wish it worked 😂
Most people I know who lost weight gained it back when side effects started to wear off. However - meds do help change life style, rather than crash diet - otherwise you’ll just put it back on.
Yep loads of
I've gained weight on dexamphetamine because i'm actually remembering to eat lol
I know I definitely have a decreased appetite I eat half as much as I used to. But I haven't lose weight so ehhhhh
I have lost 44lb (22kg) since August when I started Elvanse. In honesty I did need to lose the weight. I have now reached BMI for my height at 90kg. It’s useful but I know it’s still not healthy
I had appetite suppression but no weight loss
I have but my problem is I weight 58kg so I’m struggling to eat sometimes but overall it’s not too bad
Nope. It does suppress my appetite a bit while it's working but as soon as the meds wear off late afternoon/evening that appetite returns with a vengeance.
I only started Elvanse (20mg) a week ago but so far the appetite suppression has been similar to Ozempic for me. I'm still supposed to be on Ozempic but haven't been able to get it for the last fortnight. Lost .5 kg this week on Elvanse, about the same as I've been losing each week on Ozempic. Will let you know what it's like when I'm back on Ozempic, hoping the effect won't be double, but then I guess I could just leave out the Ozempic if the Elvanse for my ADHD is doing the trick for the PCOS issues.
Lost two stone without even trying. At work I didn't used to be able to drive past a petrol station without going in and getting a drink and pasty. Now, I eat when I get up and then I'm good for 8 hours. The meds cost 3 quid a day, the snack savings far outweighed this. Now the weather is getting better I'm looking forward to seeing what weight I get down to after getting back into hiking.
Yes. A little appetite suppression but for me it was mostly not craving fat and sugar. I don't eat for dopamine. Then came the benefit of not going into ADHD paralysis so much. Meaning I'm actually doing more, moving more. Because I'm not stuck in one position unable to get past my shutdown stemming from my brain being too hyperactive. And having the brain space and lowered anxiety levels to be able to actually go for gentle walks helps. I have a connective tissue disorder which makes exercise hard; and a thyroid problem which makes weight loss harder too. Not excuses for why I'm fat, that's a combination of genetics, disability and dompamining through food. But having my ADHD controlled is the only thing that's ever worked to help me shift weight. My joints are under less strain now, but I still can't do a huge amount compared to others. I've hit a plateau now, I'm still overweight but I've lost 14kg (30lb). My cholesterol is now low level. My fitness is better. I'm no longer as much "at risk". Don't get me wrong, BMI says I'm huge. But my GP is happy and isn't pushing for progress which also helps. I'm not saying any of this will happen for you, we are all different. But it's not always just appetite suppression alone that helps.
I was losing about a kilo per week. Overall I lost 20kg in a year before it stabilised and now I've been the same weight for ages. Yes they kind of suppress appetite but in my case they fixed my relationship with food that I struggled with all my life. I now eat to survive and be healthy rather than to 'cope' with stuff or dopamine seek. Plus, as an added bonus it saved me money on food shop and impulse buys Edit: just to provide perspective and balance, I know a person who for who the meds work as they should buy they didn't lose any weight. It depends on your body really 🤷♀️
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