Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and focus. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, can also be used.
Most adults with ADHD are treated using a combination of medicine along with talk therapy and skills training. It is crucial to choose the right dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to boost focus and energy. They can be consumed orally, snorted, or inhaled. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high abuse risk.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the principal classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They also can reduce depression in those with ADHD and assist them in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behavior like drinking, gambling and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if taken improperly or excessively. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependency and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorders. add and treatment is essential to identify the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and negative impact on your daily functioning and relationships.
Stimulants aren't only addictive but could be harmful to those with certain health conditions. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which can cause a heart attack or stroke. They can also cause seizures, as well as other mental health issues.
Many people with ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice changes. Most people notice the changes in their family, friends as well as their colleagues and teachers.
The development of addiction to stimulants may be caused by taking them in larger doses than prescribed or for a longer period than prescribed by their health care providers. It may also occur when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This can result in a dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can be habit-forming however, they are less likely to cause addiction than illicit drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine. Any drug that is used improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and is often mixed with alcohol or other substance to increase its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine, and methamphetamines are among the most frequently used stimulants by adolescents to improve their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the-counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street narcotic, often referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be consumed in the form of a smoke, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injected into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form or capsules, tablets, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled on food items.