Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and manage their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medications and life-skills training. It is essential to select the correct dosage and timing for the medication to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Illegally, they're used to boost focus and energy. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a significant abuse risk.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the main classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, awareness and productivity by boosting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in those who have ADHD. They can also reduce depression in some people with ADHD and help them sleep better. They may also reduce risky behaviors, such as gambling, drinking and a drug addiction.
These medications can cause serious side effects if they are taken incorrectly or in excess. These medications should be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who use stimulants can develop a dependency on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms 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 could be harmful to those with certain health conditions. These drugs can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause a stroke or heart attack. They can also cause seizures, as well as other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD see a positive improvement in their symptoms only two weeks after they begin stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice the change. Most people notice the improvements in their friends, family members, colleagues and teachers.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people take these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for longer than intended by their healthcare providers. It can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, like opioids. This can result in an unwise combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
adult adhd treatment can be addictive, but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. However, any drug that is used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and is sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substance to enhance its effect. The most common stimulants abused by young people to improve their performance at school, at work or in sports are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in over-the-counter and prescription medications like Adderall. They are also available as a street drug commonly known as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be swallowed, smoked or snorted, or mixed in water and injecting into the muscle or vein. They are available in capsules, tablets crystals that are clear or brownish and a powder that can be sprinkled over food items.