ADHD and OCD
Does anyone here have both ADHD and OCD? my psychologist screening results suggested that I have both, but my psychiatrist prescribed Vyvanse first because he believes my OCD is a "comorbid condition" and it might improve once my ADHD is better managed.
Since starting Vyvanse 2-3 months ago (along with iron infusion and vitamin D supplements because my blood test came out baaad), I've noticed some positive changes like fewer headaches after work, less sensitivity to noise, feeling more capable of doing boring or mundane tasks, and not feeling sleepy or yawning all the time.
However, my OCD symptoms don't seem to be improving. In fact, they felt worse when I increased my dose to 40 mg, which I understand is a fairly typical dose for an adult woman. I feel like the medication makes me more anxious, and I end up ruminating and engaging in more compulsive behaviours. In my case, that mainly involves arranging things in a specific order (symmetry), including digital things like my email inbox and calendar tasks. I also felt like a zombie on this dose, tired but could not relax... and also had 0 appetite. So now I am back at 20 mg and just waiting to see my psychiatrist in a week.
I'm not sure what's going on. Could it be that the medication is making me more aware of my surroundings and increasing my focus, but directing that focus toward the wrong things? Or is it possible that OCD is actually my primary struggle?
Has anyone experienced something similar? I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences or any advice on how to manage this situation. Thank you!
Posted Jun 11, 2026, 2:40 AM UTC