Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines such as Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) aid people in focusing and manage their impulses. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication that increases brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of adults with ADHD will be treated using the combination of medications and life-skills training. It is essential to select the correct dosage and timing for the medication to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription drugs that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy and obesity. They are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to increase energy and concentration. They can be taken orally, snorted, or injectable. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at risk for abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the principal classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. adhd treatment for adults can help people with ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They can also help reduce depression in people who have ADHD and help them sleep better. They may also reduce risk-taking behaviors, such as gambling, drinking and a drug addiction.
These medications can cause serious side effects if taken incorrectly or in excess. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who abuse stimulants could develop a dependency and an addiction referred to as stimulant use disorders. It is important to identify the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs of addiction include an urge to use the substance, difficulties in stopping and a negative impact on your daily functioning.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be hazardous for those suffering from particular health issues. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which can cause stroke or heart attack. They can also cause seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people with ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to notice an improvement. These improvements are typically visible to family friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
Addiction to stimulants may occur when people take them at higher dosages or for longer time than prescribed by their health care providers. It can also occur when stimulants are taken together with other substances, for example opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that can increase the risk of overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence however they are less likely to cause dependence than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines and cocaine. Any drug that is used improperly can cause addiction and dependence.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or a different substance to boost its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine, and methamphetamines are among the most commonly used stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications such as Adderall. Amphetamines can also be purchased as a street drug which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or dissolved in a solution of water and injected directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of or capsules, tablets, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled over food.