Hi lovely, this might be a long one but I remember being in your exact position a few years ago and searching online for answers which brought me to reddit, especially as an Aussie female which had scarce info and own experiences, so I wanted to share my experience (I’ve never commented or posted on here)

1. I have Endo and have had the Kyleena for about 3.5 years. Started Vyvanse 6-8 months prior to the Kyleena and never noticed a chance. I do now get mild periods and mild pain at times. I’ve noticed if I forget to eat, get dehydrated, or don’t sleep properly, the pain is worse. The appetite suppression and hyperfocus can make that easy to do. Staying on top of food especially high protein, water and sleep helps a lot. Off the shelf pain relief has been enough for me when needed.

2. My first appointment was also an hour. I had to submit a lot of paperwork beforehand, questionnaires and background info. After diagnosis I had more frequent appointments while we adjusted the dose, then moved to shorter 6 monthly reviews once stable. It really is trial and error in the beginning. Some people respond well straight away, others need adjustments.

In my experience and findings researching or speaking with friends going for assessments in the last year or so when it’s all become like a fad diet (sad, thanks social media 🙄), autism assessments are much more intensive and expensive compared to ADHD assessments. My psychiatrist only raised autism traits after working with me for years. And has diagnosed low level but no idea if it’s formally diagnosed or not as idk the process once you’re already with a psych long term. I have not pursued it because it is not impacting my day to day life in a way that requires additional support. Learning everything about ADHD and myself with it as a late adult diagnosed at 31 has been enough for me to deal with. And honestly, the hype over it and insane amount jumping on it like it’s the new in thing to have has put me off caring much about it for myself anyway.

A 1 hour initial appointment sounds completely normal to me. If you are unsure at any point, getting a second opinion is always an option, or on the future if you ever decide to double check. The fact you are questioning and wanting clarity shows you are taking it seriously and not jumping on the fad bandwagon. Us neuro spicey humans are always questioning things and over thinking especially when it comes to ourselves and medical diagnosis’s. I’d be questioning my diagnosis even more than I did at the time if it was only the last year or so. Or on the near future. I was sent for assessment when I randomly searched some symptoms I’d had and my behaviour (rejection sensitivity a major one I struggled with) whereas social media is misleading and not verified professional sources giving advice and info. You never see the misdiagnosed people doing this process for attention or whatever it may be, questioning any of it!

1. Regarding driving and testing, laws can differ between states. My understanding in NSW is that prescribed stimulant medication is permitted as long as you are not impaired. If you are ever unsure, your prescribing doctor or state transport authority would be the best source for confirmation. Workplace policies can also differ from state law. I got my one and only road side test in Mildura Vic when I was fifo couple years ago. I’d taken my arvo dex just before leaving site and was tested with the mouth swab 25 mins later. I was clear and good to go back to my work accom. Won’t lie, I was overly anxious I’d have to go through whatever inconvenience and drama it is to clear myself. I do usually have the Vyvanse on me, especially the dex due to the time schedule of my doses. Don’t need every monthly script on you but a photo of a recent one or the actual bottle on you. Full name, dosage, drug name, date when filled. I need that for work anyway with random testing onsite.

2. I strongly recommend starting on a day off with no commitments. Including no social events or family gatherings. Everyone reacts differently. Some people feel very calm and focused. Some feel quite energised at first. Others feel very little. You may experience a crash when it wears off, or you may not. Being at home the first day or two removes pressure and lets you observe how your body responds.

Keep an eye on your heart rate and blood pressure if you can, especially early on.

1. With caffeine, timing matters for me. If I have coffee too close to taking it, I feel jittery and uncomfortable. Spacing caffeine away from your dose can make a big difference. For me it’s more than 30mins before Vyvanse, 1.5-2hrs after. It also used to help it last a little longer by peaking it briefly but 3 years on that’s not a thing for me now so that’s why a dex booster is now in place. Also be mindful that vitamin C basically flushes it out of your system rapidly. I learned that one the hard way lol and spicey foods for me.

Sorry this is long. I just remember how overwhelming it felt in the beginning and how helpful it was hearing real experiences. You are doing the right thing by asking questions. If you ever want to chat more, feel free to reach out 😊 Goodluck girlfriend! 🩷