Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritualin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and concentrate. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant that boosts brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated using a combination therapy, medications and life-skills training. It is essential to select the right dosage and time for the medication in order to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, in addition to other systems. They are prescribed drugs to treat narcolepsy, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). They are also abused illegally for recreational purposes to boost energy and concentration. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. Under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which implies they pose a substantial risk of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate comprise two of the major groups of stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help improve concentration and decrease feelings of fatigue among people with ADHD. They also can help people who suffer from ADHD to sleep better and reduce depression. They can also reduce risk-taking behaviors, like drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications can have serious side effects if they are not taken correctly or if you consume too many. It is important to only take these medications as directed by your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them, and an addiction called stimulant use disorders. It is important to identify the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms of addiction include a desire to take the drug, difficulty in stopping, and a negative effect on your daily life.
Stimulants aren't only addictive, but they could be harmful to those suffering from certain health conditions. These substances can increase blood pressure and heart rate which can lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a change in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice a change. These improvements are often most evident to family members, friends, teachers and work colleagues.
The development of addiction to stimulants may occur when people take these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for longer periods than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It can also happen when stimulants are mixed with other substances such as opioids. This could result in a dangerous combination of effects that increase the chance of an overdose and even death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines or copyright. However any drug misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medication can be abused easily and is often mixed with alcohol or another substance get more info to boost its effects. The most common stimulants used by adolescents to boost their performance at school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines and methamphetamines.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the counter medicines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines can also be purchased as a street drug which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or dissolving in a solution of water and injected directly into the vein or muscle. They are available in the form or tablets, capsules, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled over food.