Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines that are in the form of Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated with a combination therapy, medication and life skills training. It is important to use the right dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, in addition to other systems. They are prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to boost focus and energy. They can be consumed orally, snorted, or injectable. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high chance of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate comprise two of the main groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can boost concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue among people who have ADHD. They also can reduce depression in people who have ADHD and assist them in sleeping better. adult adhd treatment can also reduce risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling and drug abuse.
These medications can have serious side effects if they are not taken correctly or if you take too many. These medications should be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who abuse stimulants may develop a dependence and develop an addiction, known as stimulant use disorder. It is important to recognize symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and negative impact on your daily functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are dangerous for people with certain health problems. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood-pressure which could lead to a stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people who suffer from ADHD see a positive improvement in their symptoms only a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice a change. Most people notice the changes in their family, friends, colleagues and teachers.
Addiction to stimulants can be caused by taking them in larger doses than prescribed or for longer than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It can also occur when stimulants are used in conjunction with other substances, such as opioids. This can result in a risky combination of effects that increase the chance of an overdose or death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to cause dependence than illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. Any drug used incorrectly could lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to boost its effects. The most common stimulants that are abused by youngsters to enhance their performance at school, sports or work are nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines and methamphetamines.
Amphetamines can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications like Adderall. They are also available as a street narcotic, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be swallowed, smoked or snorted or dissolved in water and injecting into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form of or capsules, tablets, brownish or clear crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.