[Gooner22]

Hi All !

Long time browser of the boards and I can say I've definitely learned a lot, (especially from Mark In Idaho)! Thank you all for that. I will likely make a larger post in the coming weeks but I'm currently in the middle of finals in my first year at university.

I do have one quick question tho, my doctor prescribed me vyvanse (adhd meds) to help with the inability to focus while doing school work, and I've been using it only during times where I wouldn't be able to complete work otherwise. I know that many members of neuro adviser against it, but I am just wondering if there is any real long term harm? I understand it's putting a lot of strain on my brain because I cant really feel the negative effects of the concussion while I work. But it honestly is extremely helpful in aiding my studies.. I've been able to push through this school year - not without many ups and downs I admit - but overall I haven't made much progress for better or for worse in terms of recovery, but have maintained an A average regardless..

This was longer then i though haha - study breaks tend to be that way for me anyways.

Basically I'm just looking for some advise from those who have been able to attend school while recovering from pcs (or have knowledge of someone who has), and also some comments on my methods of coping!

Thanks,

Gooner22

[Mark in Idaho]

Your med is an amphetamine. I wonder if caffeine could do the job. Vyvanse is slow in initial action so it would need to be taken at least an hour before expected action from the active drug (dextroamphetamine). Then, its half life in the blood is 10 to 13 hours. The half life of caffeine is 5 to 7 hours.

The goal would be to give your brain a break from the stimulant effect of the drug.

Are you following a brain nutrition regimen like the vitamin regimen listed in the sticky ? It would be advisable since you are stressing your brain with the Vyvanse.

[Gooner22]

Thanks for the response Mark,

So your saying caffeine is a better substitute because it has a shorter stimulation duration? The trouble with that is typically during finals I'm at my computer working for almost the entire day (minus breaks). My logic is that since I'm only using the meds for a week or so its ok since a extended period of rest ensues afterwards.

I recently went out and purchased most of the prescribed supplements and am starting the regiment shortly, but am still curious as to how quickly I'll see improvement, and to what degree? Will the regiment finally lead me out of pcs or not?

Thanks,
Gooner

[Mark in Idaho]

Good brain nutrition takes weeks if not a few months to see a real difference. The most valuable part of the regimen is how it helps your brain tolerate stress. The roller coaster should settle down to a more tolerable level.

It is not a PCS cure.

I hope you can last through your study needs with the Vyvanse. I'd expect that you will need to recover from the strain once finals are over.