Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of 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 adults suffering from ADHD are treated with an array of medications as well as talk therapy and life skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication is crucial to maximize its effectiveness.
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), narcolepsy, and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to boost energy and focus. They can be consumed in a mouthful, snorted or injected. treatment for add are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high chance of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate comprise two of the principal categories of stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in people with ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in some people with ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risky behaviors like gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications may cause serious adverse effects if not taken correctly or if you take too many. It is important to only take these medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependency on them and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulty stopping the use, and a negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are hazardous for those suffering from certain health issues. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within weeks of starting stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are often most noticeable to family friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people take them in larger doses than prescribed or for longer periods than prescribed by their health care providers. It can also occur when stimulants are taken together with other substances, such as opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increases the likelihood of an overdose or death.
The use of prescription stimulants can lead to addiction however they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines. Any drug that is misused can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant drugs can be easily abused and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effect. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are the most frequently used stimulants by teens to enhance their performance at school in sports, at school, or at work.
Amphetamines are found in over-the-counter and prescription medications such as Adderall. Amphetamines are also sold as a street drug which is also known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted, or dissolved in a solution of water and put directly into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form of tablets, capsules and clear or brownish crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled on food items.