Effects of Different Formulations of Methylphenidate (Ritalin) on Dysautonomia Symptoms

[Frost]

Dear All,

I have EDS (classical and hypermobility overlap), and have been suffering from, what I believe, are symptoms of dysautonomia. Here’s a list:
(1) Chronic fatigue.
(2) High temperature intolerance.
(3) Frequent urination. It comes suddenly: one moment I have no need to urinate, and then a minute later it feels mega urgent.
(4) When awake for more than around 4 hours: loss of concentration.
(5) When awake for more than around 10 hours: mild dizziness, blurring of vision. Also, when going from lying down/sitting down to standing up, I get an explosive stinging in my feet, and they turn somewhat red (blood pooling at extremities).

I have tried Ritalin to help with some of these. Interestingly, I find that INSTANT RELEASE Ritalin, 5-10 mg, helps for the next 4 hours (after taking it) A LOT. In particular, it really helps with (1), (4) and (5). It also helps somewhat with (2). No effect on (3).

However, when I’ve tried an EXTENDED RELEASE Ritalin, called Concerta (18 mg), (1) and (4) GOT MUCH WORSE, while (5) was basically unaffected. I have tried this several times, and each time it would be the same: Concerta would make me feel worse.

Ritalin and Concerta seem to act like completely different drugs in my body.

Does anyone have a similar experience? Any suggestions for possible explanations?

Thanks!

[Brecken]

Yes, I have had the exact same experience!

[Frost]

Yes, I have had the exact same experience!

Interesting! Have you tried any other stimulant, like, for example, Modafinil?

[Author]

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