Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and focus. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine is also a possibility.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated using an array of medications, talk therapy and life skills training. The right dose and timing of the medication is important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs that treat narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Illegally, they are abused to increase energy and focus. They can be taken in a mouthful, snorted or inhaled. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high abuse risk.
Amphetamines, along with the methylphenidate are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines improve alertness, awareness and productivity through the increase of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. They can improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in people who suffer from ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in some people with ADHD and assist them in sleeping better. They can also reduce risk-taking behaviors, like drinking, gambling, and drug use.
These medications could cause serious adverse effects if not properly taken or if you consume too many. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who use stimulants can develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorders. It is essential to be aware of the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs of addiction include an urge to use the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your everyday functioning.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be harmful for those with certain health issues. These drugs can increase blood pressure and heart rate which could lead to a stroke or heart attack. They can also cause seizures and other mental health issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a significant improvement in their symptoms only several weeks after beginning stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are usually visible to family friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people take them in higher doses or for longer durations than recommended by their medical professionals. It may also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances like opioids. treatments for add can result in an unwise combination which increases the risk of an overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to cause addiction than illicit substances such as methamphetamines or cocaine. Any drug that is misused can cause addiction and dependence.
The effects of stimulants are a lot of fun to abuse and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to enhance the effects. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are among the most commonly used stimulants abused by teenagers to improve their performance at school, in sports, or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines can also be purchased as a street drug which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted, or dissolving in a solution of water and injected directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of or tablets, capsules crystals that are clear or brownish, and a powder which can be sprinkled over food.