Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines such as Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and manage their impulses. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medication and life skills. The right dose and timing of the medication is crucial to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system among other systems. They are prescribed drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. They are also illegally abused for recreational purposes to boost energy and focus. They can be taken orally, snorted, or injectable. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at chance of abuse.
Amphetamines, as well as methylphenidate, are two of the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can help people with ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They can also help people with ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They may also reduce risky behaviors, such as drinking, gambling and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if taken improperly or in excess. These medications should be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who use stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction, known as stimulant use disorder. It is essential to identify symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
Stimulants are not only addictive, but could be harmful to people with certain health issues. These drugs can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people have a longer time to notice a change. These improvements are typically evident to family members friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
adhd in adults treatment of addiction to stimulants can occur when people consume them in larger doses than prescribed or for a longer period than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It also happens when stimulants are combined with other substances like opioids. This can lead to an unwise combination which increases the risk of overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence however they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamine and cocaine. Any drug that is misused could lead to dependence and addiction.
The use of stimulants can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to boost its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine, and methamphetamines are some of the most commonly used stimulants abused by teenagers to improve their performance at school, in sports, or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medicines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are also available as a street drug, that is often referred to as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or dissolving in a solution of water and injecting directly into the muscle or vein. They come in capsules, tablets, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled on food items.