Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) aid in controlling their thoughts and concentrate. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are treated with an array of medications as well as talk therapy and life skills training. It is crucial to choose the right dosage and time 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. Illegally, they are abused to boost focus and energy. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high risk of abuse.
Amphetamines, in conjunction with methylphenidate, are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue in those who suffer from ADHD. They can also help people who suffer from ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They may also reduce risky behaviors 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 can develop a dependence and develop an addiction, called stimulant use disorder. iampsychiatry is crucial to recognize symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs of addiction are an urge to use the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your daily functioning.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are dangerous for people with certain health problems. These medications can raise blood pressure and heart rate which could lead to a stroke or heart attack. They may also cause seizures and other mental issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms just several weeks after beginning stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are usually evident to family members or friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can occur when people take the drugs in higher doses than prescribed or for a longer period than intended by their healthcare providers. It may also occur when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increase the likelihood of an overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can be habit-forming however they are less likely to cause addiction than illicit drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine. Any drug used incorrectly could lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and is sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substance to increase its effects. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are some of the most frequently used stimulants by teenagers to improve their performance at school and 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 drug generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted or dissolved in water and injecting into the vein or muscle. They are available in capsules, tablets crystals that are clear or brownish and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.