05/08/2025
(If you want more of a shorter update look on my stories)
💊 ADHD Medication Diary: Switching from Elvanse to Focusim XL (Modified-Release) – (Days 1 to 3)
𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟏 – 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐦 𝐗𝐋 (𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐝-𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞)
Today was my first day switching from Elvanse to Focusim. I was really anxious about starting something new, especially after being on Elvanse since my diagnosis in 2019. I wasn’t sure what to expect or if I was making the right decision.
To be honest, not much happened today. I felt really nauseous and had a bad headache for most of the day, which made it hard to tell if the medication was doing anything. Because I felt so unwell, I mostly rested and did some light work on my iPad. I didn’t do much to properly test how Focusim XL might affect things like my focus or motivation.
Fingers crossed tomorrow feels better and the side effects settle.
𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟐 – 𝐒𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬
The nausea and headache are still hanging around, and it’s really unpleasant. I did notice a slight calming effect though like I could sit still and feel somewhat content. But I didn’t experience any real improvement in energy, motivation, or productivity, which I used to get with Elvanse when it worked well for me.
Emotionally, I felt quite flat. I didn’t want to talk to anyone and felt low, like my emotions were muted or numbed. I’m not sure if that’s the medication or just to do with where I’m at in my cycle, which definitely affects my mood and emotional regulation.
It also might be related to my B12 deficiency. I’m due for my eight-week B12 injection, and when I’m overdue, I really notice it in my mood and energy. So all of that could be playing a part too. Right now, I’m just not sure how I feel about Focusim XL yet.
𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟑 – 𝐀 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥
Today felt totally different—in a really good way. I felt calm, emotionally balanced, and in control. I was able to manage situations that usually overwhelm me or send me into an emotional spiral.
Small inconveniences that would normally ruin my whole day didn’t affect me nearly as much. That’s a huge step forward in terms of emotional regulation.
I also managed to get through some of the more boring ADHD tasks like admin and replying to emails things I usually procrastinate on until the last minute. I felt a little more focused, and my brain wasn’t constantly searching for stimulation or distractions.
For the first time since starting Focusim XL, I felt like my mind was clear and I could just be. That gave me a real sense of hope.
⚠️Disclaimer:⚠️
This diary reflects my personal experience only and is not intended as medical advice. I am not a doctor or a trained medical professional. If you have any questions about medications or need medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare provider or physician.
