Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines that are in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, can also be used.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with a combination of medicine, talk therapy and life skills training. The right dose and timing of the medication are important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, as well as other systems. They are prescribed medications that treat narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Iam Psychiatry are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to increase energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they pose a high chance of misuse.
Amphetamines, as well as the methylphenidate are two of the most common stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can boost concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in those who suffer from ADHD. They also can reduce depression in those with ADHD and help them sleep better. They may also reduce risk-taking behavior, such as gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications could cause serious side effects if they are not taken correctly or if you take too many. These medications should be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who abuse stimulants could develop a dependence on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to identify the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs of addiction include a desire to take the drug, difficulty in stopping, and a negative effect on your everyday functioning.
Stimulants are not only addictive, but they can also be dangerous for those with certain health conditions. These drugs can increase the blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause a stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures and other mental health issues.
Many people with ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms just several weeks after beginning stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see improvements. These improvements are typically visible to family, friends, teachers and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can develop when people take them at higher doses or for longer periods than recommended by their health care providers. It may also occur when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This can result in an extremely dangerous combination which increases the risk of overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants can be habit-forming however they are less likely to cause addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamine and cocaine. However any drug misused incorrectly can result in dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be easily abused and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are the most common stimulants abused 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. Amphetamines are also sold as a street drug, that is often referred to as "study drug". They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including snorting, smoking or mixed with water and injected directly into the vein or muscle. They come in tablets, capsules and brownish or clear crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food.