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Re: Ritalin = NO side effects in PWN?!!

Posted by PillowGirl on November 22, 2002 at 12:37:50:

In Reply to: Re: Ritalin = NO side effects in PWN?!! posted by numberman on November 22, 2002 at 10:58:17:

Well, here are my thoughts....

Yes, Ritalin can be addictive. However, that does not necissarily impact the need to take the med, it is just one of the side effects. That does not make you a "junkie". Some people that take the medication build up a tolerance, and they need to take a drug holiday.

A drug holiday is often used to prevent tolerance to the medication. People may take holidays once a week, once a month, or just when it starts to lose effectiveness. People often experience withdrawel symptoms during the holiday, and often aren't good for much besides sleeping during that period (no meds to keep you awake, plus withdrawel symptoms).

It could very well be that the Dr wants him to take a drug holiday and only prescribes him enough med to get him through the month with holiday breaks. It could also be that he is needing more medication and that he is embarassed to ask the doctor.

Also, many narcoleptics really don't leave home with out medication, otherwise they would not be able to function.

Maybe a way to bring up the subject would be to ask him if his medication is not working as well as it use to- or if he just needs to take a drug holiday a few times a month. Then maybe offer to help him out during the holiday time (bring him some food, offer to take him somewhere if he needs to go out).

It is obvious that you care enough to ask question and be concerned. This is one of the most important things that family can do for a narcoleptic. Let him know that you are there for him, and try very hard not to judge.

As an FYI- most Narcoleptics face the constant challenge of functioning at the equivilant of 36-48 hours of sleep depriviation in a 'normal' person.

Feel free to ask questions here. We will try to help you understand.

BTW Narcolepsy Association UK has a great webstite.

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