Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate, (Ritalin, Concerta), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and focus. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that increases the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with a combination of medicine along with talk therapy and skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication are essential to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants speed up the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescribed medications that treat obesity, narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). They are also illegally abused as recreational drugs to increase energy and concentration. 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 danger of misuse.
Amphetamines, as well as methylphenidate, are two of the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can boost concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in those who suffer from ADHD. They can also help some people with ADHD to sleep better and reduce depression. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling, and drug use.
These medications may cause serious adverse effects if not properly taken or if you consume too many. adhd adults treatment should only be taken as directed by your doctor.
People who use stimulants may develop a dependence and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is important to recognize the signs of this condition and seek treatment. The signs of addiction include a desire for the drug, difficulty stopping, and a negative effect on your daily life.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can be hazardous for those suffering from certain health problems. These substances can increase your heart rate and blood-pressure which can lead to a stroke or heart attack. They can also lead to seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people with ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within weeks of starting stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice the change. The majority of people notice improvements in their family, friends as well as their colleagues and teachers.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people consume them in higher doses or for longer durations than prescribed by their healthcare providers. It can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, such as opioids. This can result in an extremely dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs like methamphetamines and cocaine. However any substance used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
The use of stimulants can be abused easily and is often mixed with alcohol or a different substance to increase its effects. The most commonly used stimulants abused by youngsters to enhance their performance in school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines such as Adderall. Amphetamines are also sold as a street substance, which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted, or dissolving in a solution of water and injecting directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form of or capsules, tablets, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled over food.