Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate, (Ritalin Concerta, Ritualin) and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their impulses and concentrate. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant drug that boosts brain neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of adults with ADHD will be treated using the combination of medications and life-skills training. It is crucial to choose the right 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), narcolepsy, and obesity. They are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to increase energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. According to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which implies they pose a substantial abuse risk.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are two of the main groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, awareness and productivity by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in people who suffer from ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in some people with ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behavior, such as drinking, gambling and a drug addiction.
These medications may cause serious side effects if they are not properly taken or if you consume too much. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
treatment for adult add who abuse stimulants could develop a dependency and an addiction referred to as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping use, and a negative impact on your everyday functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can be harmful for those with certain health problems. These substances can increase the blood pressure and heart rate which could lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms just several weeks after beginning stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see improvements. These improvements are typically noticeable to family or friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people take them in larger doses than prescribed or for a longer period than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It may also happen when stimulants are combined with other substances, such as opioids. This could result in a dangerous combination of effects that can increase the likelihood of an overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence however, they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs like methamphetamines and cocaine. However any substance used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
The effects of stimulants can be easily abused and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effect. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are the most commonly used stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school in sports, at school, or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications like Adderall. Amphetamines are also sold as a street substance, that is often referred to as "study drug". They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including snorting, smoking or dissolving in a solution of water and injecting directly into the vein or muscle. They come in the form of tablets, capsules and brownish or clear crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food.