Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines such as Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and manage their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine can also be used.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD will be treated with a combination therapy, medication and life skills training. The proper dosage and timing of the medication are essential to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants speed up the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy and obesity. They can also be used as recreational drugs to boost energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at danger of misuse.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are two of the major groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and boost their concentration. treating add in adults can also reduce depression in people who have ADHD and assist them in sleeping better. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors, like drinking, gambling, and drug use.
These medications could cause serious adverse effects if not taken correctly or if you consume too much. You should only take these medications as prescribed by your physician.
People who abuse stimulants may develop a dependence and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is crucial to recognize signs of this problem and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and a negative impact on your daily functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are harmful for those with certain health problems. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also trigger seizures and other mental issues.
Many people with ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within weeks of starting stimulant medication. Some people have a longer time to notice changes. The majority of people notice improvements in their friends, family members as well as their colleagues and teachers.
Addiction to stimulants can be caused by taking the drugs in higher doses than prescribed or for longer than intended by their healthcare providers. It can also occur when stimulants are taken together with other substances, for example opioids. This can lead to a dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamines and cocaine. Any drug that is used improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to enhance its effect. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are among the most commonly used stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school in sports, at school, or at work.
Amphetamines are available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street narcotic, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be consumed in the form of a smoke, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injections into the vein or muscle. They come in the form of tablets, capsules and brownish or clear crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food items.