Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritualin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) aid in controlling their thoughts and focus. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that increases brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated with a combination therapy, medication and life skills. The correct dosage and timing of the medication are crucial to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants speed up the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to boost energy and focus. They can be taken by mouth, snorted, or injectable. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they pose a high danger of abuse.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are two of the main groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, awareness and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in those with ADHD. They can also reduce depression in some people with ADHD and help them sleep better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviours, such as drinking, gambling and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if they are taken improperly or in excess. These medications should only be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants can develop a dependence and develop an addiction, known as stimulant use disorder. treating adult adhd is essential to identify symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms include a craving for the medication, difficulties stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be harmful for those with certain health issues. These drugs can increase your blood pressure and heart rate which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also trigger seizures and other mental disorders.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms just two weeks after they begin stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see improvements. These improvements are often most noticeable to family or friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can be caused by taking these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for a longer period than intended by their healthcare providers. It can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, such as opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increase the likelihood of an overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. However any substance used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to boost its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine, and methamphetamines are among the most frequently used stimulants by adolescents to improve their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines such as Adderall. They are also available as a street drug commonly known as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be consumed in the form of a smoke, swallowed, snorted, or dissolved in water and injections into the muscle or vein. They come in tablets, capsules crystals that are clear or brownish and powders that can be sprinkled on food.