Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines that are in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that increases brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated using an array of medications, talk therapy and life skills training. It is crucial to choose the correct dosage and timing for the medication in order 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 as recreational drugs to boost energy and concentration. They can be consumed by mouth, snorted, or injectable. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at risk for misuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate comprise two of the main groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, awareness and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in those with ADHD. They can also help people with ADHD sleep better and reduce depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors like gambling, drinking and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious adverse effects if not taken correctly or if you take too much. You should only use these medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
People who use stimulants can develop a dependency and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorders. It is essential to identify the signs of this condition and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulty stopping use, and a negative impact on your everyday functioning and relationships.
Stimulants aren't only addictive but can also be dangerous for those suffering from certain health conditions. These substances can increase your blood pressure and heart rate which can cause stroke or heart attack. They may also cause seizures and other mental issues.
Many people with ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms only two weeks after they begin stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are usually noticeable to family friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can develop when people take them at higher doses or for longer durations than recommended by their health care providers. It can also happen when stimulants are combined with other substances such as opioids. This can result in an unwise combination which increases the risk of overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. However treat adhd in adults used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and is often mixed with alcohol or another substance to increase its effects. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are among the most common stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school, in sports, or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street narcotic, commonly known as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be consumed in the form of a smoke, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injected into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form tablets, capsules and clear or brownish crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled on food.