Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate, (Ritalin Concerta, Ritualin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) aid in controlling their thoughts and focus. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine can also be used.
The majority of adults with ADHD will be treated using a combination therapy, medication and life skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication are essential to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system as well as other systems. They are prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. They are also abused illegally for recreational purposes to boost energy and concentration. They can be consumed by mouth, snorted, or inhaled. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high chance of misuse.
Amphetamines, along with methylphenidate, are two of the most common stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, cognition and productivity by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can help improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in those with ADHD. They can also help some people who suffer from ADHD sleep better and reduce depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviours, such as drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications may cause serious side effects if they are not taken properly or if you consume too much. These medications should be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who use stimulants can develop a dependency on them and an addiction referred to as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs of addiction include a desire for the drug, difficulty in stopping, and a negative effect on your daily life.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can be dangerous for people with certain health issues. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are typically noticeable to family or friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
adhd untreated in adults to stimulants can occur when people consume them in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed by their healthcare providers. It also happens when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This could result in a dangerous combination of effects that increase the likelihood of an overdose and even death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamines and cocaine. However any drug misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications are a lot of fun to abuse and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to increase the effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are some of the most common stimulants abused by adolescents to improve their performance at school in sports, at school, or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the counter medications, 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 muscle or vein. They are available in the form of tablets, capsules, clear or brownish crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled on food items.