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What is your medical history with ADHD?
I have always struggled with organisation, remembering things, and concentration. When I was a child, ADHD wasn’t really recognised in girls, as their hyperactivity tends to manifest as hyperactive thoughts rather than fidgeting.
My symptoms became significantly worse when I entered perimenopause, which is apparently common amongst women with ADHD. I suspected I had the condition and confirmed it after sitting in on a friend’s assessment. A year later, I was officially diagnosed.
What Medication Were You Prescribed by Your Doctor?
I was offered a titration plan with my healthcare provider to try various medications and see what worked best.
Initially, I was prescribed Methylphenidate, as it was the most cost-effective option. However, I experienced immediate side effects, including nausea and a persistent dry mouth. Taking each dose felt like a trade-off—potential benefits versus enduring these side effects.
Later, after consulting my pharmacogenomic (PGx) test results, I switched to Lisdexamfetamine, which turned out to be far more effective for me.
Did You Feel That Your Medication Was Helping to Manage Your ADHD Symptoms Effectively?
With Methylphenidate, I noticed a slight improvement in symptoms, but it was difficult to determine if this was due to the medication or a placebo effect. It certainly didn’t bring the life-changing results I had hoped for and that others often described.
What Interested You About Pharmacogenomic Testing With AttoDiagnostics?
Given that my provider was using a ‘trial and error’ approach to find the right medication, I was keen on a more scientific method to guide the process. I found it hard to discern what changes were due to the medication versus wishful thinking or the placebo effect. The PGx test offered a data-driven way to identify suitable treatments.
How Would You Describe Your Experience With the AttoDiagnostics PGx Testing Process?
The process was straightforward and painless—a simple mouth swab. I felt well-informed throughout, and my report was clear and easy to understand. It included information about the medications I was taking, such as Methylphenidate, and proposed alternatives.
What Was the Impact of PGx Test Results?
The report confirmed that Methylphenidate was not suitable for me. This was a relief since I had experienced unpleasant side effects and minimal benefits. Armed with scientific evidence, I felt more confident discussing alternatives with my healthcare provider.
How Did Your Healthcare Provider Incorporate the PGx Results Into Your Treatment Plan?
My provider was receptive to the PGx report and, considering my side effects, eagerly switched me to Lisdexamfetamine. Though slightly more expensive, it was worth it. Within days of starting the new medication, I felt focused and clear-headed in a way I hadn’t before.
How Has the Change in Medication Based on PGx Testing Impacted Your Life and Symptoms?
ADHD management is a journey involving medication, coping strategies, and self-acceptance. Effective medication, like Lisdexamfetamine, has been a game-changer. Without the PGx test, I might have continued struggling with ineffective treatments.
Would You Recommend PGx Testing to Others Struggling With Finding the Right ADHD Treatment?
I enthusiastically recommend PGx testing, particularly for conditions like ADHD, where identifying ineffective medications can be tricky due to the placebo effect or hope for improvement. PGx testing gave me a scientific foundation for selecting the right treatment and dramatically improved my quality of life.
Ready to experience the benefits of personalised medicine? Visit our website and buy now to see how our cutting-edge PGx testing can make a difference for you.