Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate, (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin) and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their thoughts and focus. add treatments for adults is a non-stimulant medication that increases brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine is also a possibility.
The majority of adults with ADHD will be treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medications and life-skills training. It is essential to select the correct dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, among other systems. They are prescription drugs that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. Illegally, they are abused to increase energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they pose a high chance of misuse.
Amphetamines, along with methylphenidate, are among the most common stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, cognition and productivity through the increase of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can boost concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue among people who suffer from ADHD. They can also help people with ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors, like gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications could cause serious side effects if they are taken improperly or excessively. It is important to only use these medications as directed by your physician.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them and an addiction referred to as stimulant use disorders. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulty stopping the use, and negative impact on your everyday functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can be hazardous for those suffering from particular health issues. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also lead to seizures and other mental disorders.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within weeks after they begin taking stimulant medications. Some people take longer to notice the change. These improvements are typically visible to family, friends, teachers and colleagues at work.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people take these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for longer than prescribed by their health care providers. It may also happen when stimulants are taken together with other substances, for example opioids. This could result in a dangerous combination of effects that can increase the risk of overdose and even death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines or cocaine. Any drug that is misused can cause addiction and dependence.
The effects of stimulants can be easily abused and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effects. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are some of the most common stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are also available as a street drug, that is often referred to as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or mixed with water and injected directly into the muscle or vein. They come in tablets, capsules crystals that are clear or brownish and powders that can be sprinkled over food.