Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate, (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) aid in controlling their impulses and concentrate. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine is also a possibility.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated with a combination therapy, medication and life skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication is important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, in addition to other systems. They are prescribed medications that treat narcolepsy, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). They are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to boost energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at chance of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the major groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, awareness and productivity by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can help those with ADHD feel less tired and increase their concentration. They also can help people with ADHD to sleep better and reduce depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors, like drinking, gambling and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if taken improperly or excessively. It is important to only use these medications as directed by your doctor.
People who use stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is crucial to recognize signs of this problem and seek treatment. The symptoms of addiction include an urge to use the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your daily functioning.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be harmful for those with certain health problems. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. They can also lead to seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms only a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to notice improvements. Most people notice the improvements in their friends, family members or colleagues, as well as teachers.
Addiction to stimulants can be caused by taking them in larger doses than prescribed or for longer periods than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It may also occur when stimulants are mixed with other substances like opioids. This can result in an unwise combination that increases the risk of an overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs such as copyright and methamphetamines. However any substance used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
The use of stimulants can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or a different substance to boost its effects. The most here commonly used stimulants abused by young people to improve their performance in the workplace, in sports or at school are nicotine, caffeine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are available in over-the-counter and prescription medicines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines can also be purchased as a street drug, that is often referred to as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or dissolving in a solution of water and injecting directly into the vein or muscle. They come in the form of capsules, tablets and brownish or clear crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.