Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate, (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their thoughts and concentrate. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that boosts brain neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of adults with ADHD will be treated with the combination of medications and life-skills training. It is essential to select the right dosage and time for the medication 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) and narcolepsy and obesity. They are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to boost energy and concentration. They can be taken orally, snorted, or injected. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high risk for misuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the main groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, awareness and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue among people who suffer from ADHD. They can also reduce depression in people who have ADHD and assist them in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviours, such as drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications can have serious side effects if they are not taken correctly or if you consume too much. These medications should be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependency on them and an addiction referred to as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize the signs of this condition and seek treatment. The signs of addiction are a desire for the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your daily life.
Stimulants are not only addictive, but they can be harmful for people with certain health issues. These substances can increase blood pressure and heart rate which can lead to a stroke or heart attack. They may also cause seizures and other mental disorders.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms within several weeks after beginning stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see an improvement. Most people notice the changes in their family, friends as well as their colleagues and teachers.
Addiction to stimulants can develop when people take them in higher dosages or for longer time than prescribed by their health care providers. It can also happen when stimulants are mixed with other substances like opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increases the likelihood of an overdose or death.
More Material can be habit-forming however they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamines and cocaine. Any drug that is misused can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be easily abused and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effect. The most common stimulants used by adolescents to boost their performance at school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are available in over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines can also be purchased as a street drug, which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including snorting, smoking or dissolved in a solution of water and injecting directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form or tablets, capsules and clear or brownish crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled on food items.