Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines such as lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) help people focus and manage their impulses. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
treat adult add with ADHD are treated using the combination of medication along with talk therapy and skills training. It is important to use the right dosage and time for the medication to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, in addition to other systems. They are prescribed drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy and obesity. They are also illegally abused for recreational purposes to boost energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high danger of abuse.
Amphetamines, as well as the methylphenidate are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines increase alertness, cognition and productivity through the increase of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can help those with ADHD feel less tired and increase their concentration. They also can reduce depression in people who have ADHD and aid in sleeping better. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors like gambling, drinking and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if they are not properly taken or if you take too many. It is important to only take these medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
People who use stimulants can develop a dependency, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is essential to identify signs of this problem and seek treatment. The signs include a need for the medication, difficulty stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be dangerous for people with certain health issues. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. They can also trigger seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people with ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms just a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see improvements. Most people notice the changes in their families, friends, colleagues and teachers.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people consume these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for a longer period than intended by their healthcare providers. It also happens when stimulants are combined with other substances like opioids. This can result in a risky combination of effects that increases the likelihood of an overdose or death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to cause addiction than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines or cocaine. However, any drug that is misused incorrectly can result in dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or a different substance to enhance its effect. The most commonly used stimulants abused by young people to improve their performance in school, sports or work are nicotine, caffeine amphetamines, methamphetamines, and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in over-the-counter and prescription medications like Adderall. Amphetamines are also available as a street drug which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted, or dissolving in a solution of water and put directly into the muscle or vein. They are available in tablets, capsules crystals that are clear or brownish and a powder that can be sprinkled on food.