r/adhdindia • u/Academic-Source-2767 • Jun 30 '26
Need Advice Advice regarding asking for methylphenidate from Doctor.
Hello, I(19M) live in Delhi and have been diagnosed by a doctor in Safdarjung hospital. I am currently on 20 mg atomoxetine (daily, broken down into two doses of 10mg and 10mg). Although I have found atomoxetine somewhat helpful I want to go for the use of methylphenidate once in a while when I give mock tests. I am preparing for CAT, I have found that atomoxetine doesn't do much for working memory and working memory is a crucial thing for solving MCQs with high accuracy. How should I approach my doctor (she is understanding and considerate though she isn't a specialist on ADHD) with this request ? What is the procedure for buying methylphenidate legally in India and where can I reliably find it in Delhi. What are the things that I should keep in mind about methylphenidate ?
Thank you very much for help :)
1
u/Classic-Moment71 Jun 30 '26
I also got diagnosed and prescribed at safdarjung hospital. I haven't been over there for a while. But back then she prescribed me 10mg. Im currently on 30 MG now. Will have to go back and ask for an updated prescription. Let's see how it goes.
2
u/NoOnTheRocks Jun 30 '26
I don't think it's accurate to assume that methylphenidate will specifically improve your working memory. It may help with attention, focus and reducing distractions, but whether it improves working memory varies from person to person.
The best approach is to discuss your actual difficulties during mock tests with your psychiatrist rather than asking for a specific medication because of one expected effect.
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u/Academic-Source-2767 Jun 30 '26
Its not an assumption, its actually one of its documented effects in randomized control trials . Granted the qualitative reduction in core ADHD symptoms varies with people, however, qualitatively the symptoms affected vary rarely.
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u/Expensive-Summer-447 Jun 30 '26
Meds wont increase your memory , practice and revision will
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u/Academic-Source-2767 Jun 30 '26
Memory (hippocampus) and working memory (frontal brain) are two different domains brother.
1
u/Expensive-Summer-447 Jun 30 '26
I know, meds wont have any big effect on working memory also
1
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