Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines that are in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine.
The majority of adults with ADHD are treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medication and life skills. It is important to use the correct dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescription medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy and obesity. They can also be used for recreational purposes to boost energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. According to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which implies they pose a substantial abuse risk.
Amphetamines, in conjunction with the methylphenidate are two of the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, awareness and productivity by boosting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They also can help people who suffer from ADHD sleep better and reduce depression. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors, like gambling, drinking and drug abuse.
These medications can cause serious side effects if taken incorrectly or in excess. It is important to only take these medications as directed by your physician.
People who use stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction, called stimulant use disorder. It is important to recognize signs of this problem and seek treatment. The signs of addiction are a desire for the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your everyday functioning.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are dangerous for people with certain health problems. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which can cause stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures and other mental health issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a positive change in their symptoms within weeks after they begin taking stimulant medications. However, it takes longer for some people to see an improvement. Most people notice the improvements in their families, friends, colleagues and teachers.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people consume them in larger doses than prescribed or for longer periods than intended by their healthcare providers. treat adult add can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, for example opioids. This can lead to a dangerous combination which increases the risk of overdose and death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines or cocaine. Any drug that is used improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to increase its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are the most common stimulants abused by teenagers 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 and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street drug, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be swallowed, smoked or snorted or dissolved in water and injecting into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of or tablets, capsules, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled on food items.