Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and focus. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated using a combination therapy, medication and life skills. The proper dosage and timing of the medication are essential to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to boost energy and focus. They can be consumed orally, snorted, or injected. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at danger of misuse.
Amphetamines, in conjunction with methylphenidate, are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by boosting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can boost concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in those with ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in those with ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behavior, such as gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications can have serious adverse effects if not taken correctly or if you consume too much. These medications should be taken as directed by your physician.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to be aware of the 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 addictive, stimulants can also be harmful for those with certain health issues. These substances can increase your blood pressure and heart rate which could lead to stroke or heart attack. They may also cause seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks of starting stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are often most noticeable to family friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
Addiction to stimulants may occur when people consume them in higher doses or for longer periods than recommended by their health care providers. It may also happen when stimulants are combined with other substances, for example opioids. This can result in a dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
The use of prescription stimulants can lead to addiction however, they are less likely to trigger dependence than illicit drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine. Any drug used incorrectly could lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or a different substance to enhance its effect. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine, and methamphetamines are the most frequently used stimulants by adolescents to improve their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines like Adderall. They are also available as a street drug often referred to as "study drugs." untreated adhd in adults I Am Psychiatry 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 of or tablets, capsules and clear or brownish crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.