Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines that are in the form of Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated using a combination therapy, medication and life skills training. The right dose and timing of the medication is important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system among other systems. They are prescribed medications that treat narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Illegally, they are abused to boost focus and energy. They can be consumed by mouth, snorted, or inhaled. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which implies they pose a substantial abuse risk.
Amphetamines, in conjunction with methylphenidate, are among the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and increase their concentration. They can also help people with ADHD to sleep better and reduce depression. They can also reduce risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling, and drug use.
These medications can cause serious side effects if they are taken improperly or in excess. It is important to only take these medications as directed by your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is important to recognize signs of this problem and seek treatment. Going On this page of addiction include an urge to use the drug, difficulty stopping, and a negative effect on your everyday functioning.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are harmful for those with particular health issues. These drugs can increase blood pressure and heart rate which could lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also cause seizures, as well as other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice the change. These improvements are usually evident to family members or friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants may occur when people take them in higher dosages or for longer time than prescribed by their medical professionals. It can also occur when stimulants are taken together with other substances, for example opioids. This can result in a risky combination of effects that increases the risk of overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances such as methamphetamines or cocaine. However, any drug that is misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
The use of stimulants can be abused easily and is often mixed with alcohol or a different substance to enhance its effect. The most common stimulants that are abused by youngsters to enhance their performance at the workplace, in sports or at school are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines, and amphetamines.
Amphetamines can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications, including Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street narcotic, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injections into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of tablets, capsules crystals that are clear or brownish, and a powder which can be sprinkled over food.