Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of Lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of adults with ADHD are treated with the combination of medication and life skills training. It is important to use the right dosage and timing for the medication 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) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. They can also be used as recreational drugs to increase energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at risk for misuse.
treatment of add , as well as methylphenidate, are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity through the increase of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can help people suffering from ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They can also help people who suffer from ADHD sleep better and reduce depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behavior like gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications can have serious adverse effects if not taken properly or if you take too many. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependency on them and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to identify the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulty stopping the 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 drugs can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. They can also lead to seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people with ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within weeks after they begin taking stimulant medications. However, it takes longer for some people to notice improvements. These improvements are often most visible to family or friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants may occur when people consume them in higher dosages or for longer time than recommended by their healthcare providers. It can also occur when stimulants are used in conjunction with other substances, like opioids. This can lead to a dangerous combination that increases the risk of an overdose and death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines or cocaine. However, any drug that is used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and is sometimes mixed with alcohol or another substance to boost its effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine and methamphetamines are some of the most commonly used stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school, in sports, or at work.
Amphetamines are available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, including Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street drug commonly known as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injecting into the muscle or vein. They are available in tablets, capsules and brownish or clear crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food items.