Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines that are in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated with a combination therapy, medications and life-skills training. The proper 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 prescribed drugs to treat narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They are also illegally abused for recreational purposes to boost energy and focus. They can be consumed in a mouthful, snorted or injected. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they pose a high danger of misuse.
Amphetamines, as well as methylphenidate, are among the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and boost their concentration. They can also help reduce depression in people who have ADHD and help them sleep better. They can also help reduce risky behaviors, such as drinking, gambling and a drug addiction.
These medications may cause serious side effects if they are not properly taken or if you take too much. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who misuse stimulants can develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is important to recognize the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and a negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are dangerous for people with certain health problems. These drugs can raise your blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also cause seizures and other mental health issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a positive change in their symptoms within weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see improvements. These improvements are usually noticeable to family friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can develop when people consume them in higher doses or for longer durations than prescribed by their healthcare providers. It can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, such as opioids. This can lead to an extremely dangerous combination that increases the risk of overdose and even death.
The use of prescription stimulants can lead to addiction however, they are less likely to trigger dependence than illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. However any drug misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be abused easily and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effect. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are among the most frequently used stimulants by teens to enhance their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines are commonly found in prescription and over-the counter medicines like Adderall. Read Far more are also available as a street substance, which is also known as "study drug". They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including snorting, smoking or dissolved in a solution of water and put directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in capsules, tablets, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food items.