Did you start with methylphenidate or switch to or from a different ADD/ADHD med?

[Laudaphun]

I am curious about people who have dealt with ADD or ADHD and been prescribed ritalin(methylphenidate) and used other medications.

1. How old were you when you were first diagnosed with ADD/ADHD?
2. Which medication did you start with?
3. Which subsequent medications did you switch to and how did they compare in terms of effectiveness/side effects?
4. Does SWIY abuse his/her medication, always take it as prescribed, take it less than prescribed?
5. Does SWIY take any additional medications?
6. Did SWIY abuse the medication or similar medications before he/she was prescribed it?
7. Do you feel that your academic performance has improved since first prescribed the medication and if so how much?
8. Overall, compare and contrast methylphenidate to other ADD/ADHD medications you have switched to or from.

Feel free to share any other information about SWIY or yourself that like.