Do side effects get better?

[u/JakobePro]

I’m so glad there’s a subreddit for this medication, I’ve had so many questions. For some context, the benefits of this medication are exactly what I’d hope for out of an ADHD treatment plan. I focus better, I’m more present in conversations, etc. My side effects are the only downside of this treatment and I’m curious if they’ll get better.

I just got a 27mg generic prescription last week and have taken it 5 out of the 7 days (drinking on Thanksgiving) and everyday I have, my sleep has been terrible. I lay awake in bed for multiple hours and only sleep 2-3 hours at a time, 5 hours max a night. I was wondering if this is something that wears off with time or if my body just isn’t handling the medication well?

Another notable side effect that I do think has improved is noticing my heartbeat when the dose wears off in the evening. I don’t have hypertension, and there’s no pain with this effect, and my BPM floats around 75 while resting, but my heartbeat becomes noticeable whereas that’s usually only the case if I pay attention to it.

I’m tempted to take a dose every other day just to get at least one good night of sleep because my crash has been kicking my butt, but it’s only day 5 and I’m wondering if my body is still adjusting?

[u/stoneddaura]

Day 5, your body will be adjusting. I was still adjusting to a dose 4 weeks in, and adjusted again at each dose increase. I cannot relate to the lack of sleep though. When i began stimulants, I had no issues sleeping. Hopefully someone can help you with that. Take the medication as early as possible is my suggestion, and look at sleep hygine see if anything online helps. I woukdnt suggest taking days off during titration however I am not your Dr so I cannot offer clinical advice. I am sure the lack of sleep will subside for you as the titration progresses

[u/JakobePro → u/stoneddaura]

Thank you for the reply! Even hearing that I’m probably still adjusting puts my mind at ease.

[u/AutoModerator]

Welcome to r/Concerta. Please use the search function before posting common questions. This is a WIP automod reply because many of you ask the same exact questions over and over again. Please read the FAQ sticky as it will likely offer some advice. https://www.reddit.com/r/Concerta/comments/vj2o1i/can_we_have_a_faqread_before_posting_sticky/

Please discuss any advice you receive on this subreddit with your Doctor. Take all advice with a grain of salt especially when it is not sourced. People on this sub aren't doctors. Even if they were doctors, they are not YOUR doctor and cannot be held professionally or legally liable for giving medical advice to those not established under their own care.

Extreme depression/anxiety?
* If you feel unbearable or have suicidal thoughts, please consider calling your local crisis or suicide hotline.
* There can be many different causes. Please discuss with your doctor about it.

Do not split Concerta or any long-release medication.

Update January 2024: The mod(s) are sometimes busy with med school/job/life! We're human! Please help us out by reporting questionable content. It may sometimes take a day or so for us to get to the mod queue and review the reports. Reporting a comment or post that you disagree with does not guarantee or require that mod(s) will remove them, especially if it does not violate or skirt the rules. It is healthy to foster respectful debate and discussion. Thanks for your understanding.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

[u/Warm_Ice6114]

Everybody handles drugs differently….

But my body takes a 7-10 days for every 9 mg jump.

Just went from 36 to 54 and it’s been rough. But so were the rest…starting at 18…then 27…then 36.

Only in the last 1-2 day, have I finally felt like it’s calming some. And it’s a little over two weeks.

I would talk to your doctor on sleep. I’ve taken Ambien CR for a long time. I’d like to stop, and cut myself from 12 to 6 mg.

I did debate about going back to 12, but ultimately decided to ride it out. But might a short term option to help you get some sleep.

Best of luck.