Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant drug that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine can also be used.
The majority of adults with ADHD will be treated with a combination therapy, medication and life skills training. adhd natural treatment and timing of the medication are important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants speed up the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs that treat narcolepsy, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). They can also be used for recreational purposes to boost energy and concentration. They can be consumed in a mouthful, snorted or inhaled. The 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 boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in people who suffer from ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in those with ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risky behaviors, such as gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications could cause serious side effects if they are not taken properly or if you take too many. These medications should be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who abuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction, called stimulant use disorder. It is crucial to recognize symptoms of this disorder 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 can also be dangerous for those with certain health conditions. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood-pressure which can lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people with ADHD see a positive improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people are more reticent to notice changes. These improvements are usually visible to family friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people take them in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed by their healthcare providers. It may also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances like opioids. This can lead to a dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and even death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to cause addiction than illicit substances such as methamphetamines or cocaine. However any substance misused incorrectly can result in dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and is often mixed with alcohol or another substance to enhance its effect. The most commonly used stimulants abused by youngsters to enhance their performance at school, at work or in sports are nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines and methamphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street drug generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted or dissolved in water and injections into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form of or capsules, tablets, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled on food.