Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their thoughts and concentrate. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine can also be used.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD will be treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medications and life-skills training. The proper dosage and timing of the medication is important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants speed up the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs to treat obesity, narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to increase energy and focus. They can be consumed in a mouthful, snorted or injected. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high risk of abuse.
Amphetamines, along with methylphenidate, are two of the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain that are called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help those with ADHD feel less tired and increase their concentration. They can also help some people who suffer from ADHD sleep better and reduce depression. They can also reduce risk-taking behaviors, like drinking, gambling, and drug abuse.
These medications may cause serious adverse effects if not properly taken or if you take too much. You should only take these medications as prescribed by your doctor.
Iam Psychiatry who abuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction, known as stimulant use disorder. It is crucial to recognize the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms include a craving for the medication, difficulty stopping the use, and a negative impact on your everyday functioning and relationships.
Stimulants aren't only addictive but could be harmful to those suffering from certain health conditions. These drugs can increase the blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see improvements. Most people notice the improvements in their families, friends as well as their colleagues and teachers.
The development of addiction to stimulants may 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 combined with other substances, such as opioids. This can cause a dangerous combination of effects that increases the risk of overdose and death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to trigger addiction than illicit substances like methamphetamines and cocaine. However any drug misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be abused easily and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to increase the effects. The most common stimulants abused by young people to improve their performance in the workplace, in sports or at school are nicotine, caffeine amphetamines, methamphetamines, and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in over-the-counter and prescription medications, including Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street narcotic, commonly known as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be swallowed, smoked, snorted, or dissolved in water and injected into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of or tablets, capsules and clear or brownish crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled on food items.