Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines such as lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that increases brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with an array of medications along with talk therapy and skills training. The proper dosage 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 prescription medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to increase energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at risk for misuse.
Amphetamines, in conjunction with methylphenidate, are two of the most common stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, awareness and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people with ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They can also help some people with ADHD sleep better and reduce depression. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors like gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications may cause serious adverse effects if not taken correctly or if you consume too many. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who misuse stimulants can develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is essential to identify symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and negative impact on your everyday functioning and relationships.
Stimulants aren't only addictive, but they can be harmful for people with certain health issues. These drugs can raise your blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also trigger seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a positive change in their symptoms within weeks after they begin taking stimulant medications. However, it can take longer for some people to notice improvements. These improvements are usually visible to family friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can develop when people consume them in higher doses or for longer durations than prescribed by their medical professionals. It also happens when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This could result in a dangerous combination of effects that can increase the risk of overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can be habit-forming however they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamines and cocaine. treat adult adhd used incorrectly can cause addiction and dependence.
The effects of stimulants can be abused easily and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to enhance the effects. The most common stimulants abused by youngsters to enhance their performance at school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are commonly found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines like Adderall. They are also available as a street narcotic, often referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed, snorted, or dissolved in water and injecting into the muscle or vein. They come in the form of capsules, tablets, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled on food.