Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines such as methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines such as lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) aid people in focusing and manage their impulses. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medication and life skills training. The proper dosage and timing of the medication is important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, as well as other systems. They are prescribed drugs that treat obesity, narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Illegally, they are abused to increase energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high chance of abuse.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are two of the main groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in people who have ADHD. They can also help people who suffer from ADHD to sleep better and reduce depression. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviours, such as gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications can cause serious side effects if used incorrectly or in excess. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them and an addiction referred to as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to identify the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulties stopping the use, and negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be dangerous for people with particular health issues. These drugs can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which can cause stroke or heart attack. They can also lead to seizures and other mental issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a positive change in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, adult treatment for adhd can take longer for some people to notice improvements. These improvements are often most noticeable to family friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people take them at higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed by their healthcare providers. adult adhd treatments can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, like opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increase the risk of overdose or death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to lead to addiction than illicit substances such as cocaine and methamphetamines. Any drug that is misused can cause addiction and dependence.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and is sometimes mixed with alcohol or a different substance to enhance its effect. The most common stimulants that are abused by adolescents to boost their performance in school, at work or in sports are nicotine, caffeine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the counter medicines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines can also be purchased as a street drug, which is also known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or dissolved in a solution of water and injected directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in tablets, capsules, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food.