Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medication and life skills. It is crucial to choose the right dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. They are also abused illegally as recreational drugs to boost energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high risk for abuse.
Amphetamines, as well as methylphenidate, are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by boosting the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They can also reduce depression in those with ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behavior like drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications can cause serious side effects if used improperly or in excess. It is important to only take these medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs of addiction include a desire to take the drug, difficulty stopping and a negative impact on your everyday functioning.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are harmful for those with certain health problems. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. try these out can also cause seizures and other mental health issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a positive change in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. Most people notice the changes in their friends, family members or colleagues, as well as teachers.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people take them at higher dosages or for longer time than recommended by their healthcare providers. It can also happen when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This can result in an extremely dangerous combination that increases the risk of an overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like cocaine and methamphetamines. However, any drug that is misused incorrectly can result in dependence and addiction.
The effects of stimulants can be easily abused and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to increase the effect. The most popular stimulants abused by adolescents to boost their performance in school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines such as Adderall. Amphetamines are also sold as a street drug that is often referred to as "study drug". They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including snorting, smoking or mixed with water and injecting directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of or tablets, capsules and clear or brownish crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled on food.