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 focus. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that increases brain neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine.
Most adults with ADHD are treated using a combination of medicine along with talk therapy and skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication are important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed medications that treat obesity, narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Illegally, they are used to increase energy and focus. They can be consumed in a mouthful, snorted or injectable. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at chance of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate comprise two of the main categories of stimulant drugs. Amphetamines improve alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of chemical in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue among people who suffer from ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in those with ADHD and help them sleep better. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications can cause serious side effects if taken improperly or excessively. You should only take these medications as prescribed by your physician.
adhd treatment in adults who misuse stimulants can develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction, called stimulant use disorder. 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 everyday functioning and relationships.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are dangerous for people with certain health problems. These drugs can increase your blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. adhd treatment in adults can also cause seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a significant improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it takes longer for some people to see improvements. These improvements are often most visible to family or 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 periods than prescribed by their health care providers. It also happens when stimulants are mixed with other substances like opioids. This can result in a risky combination of effects that increases the likelihood of an overdose and even death.
They can be addictive, but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit substances such as methamphetamines or 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 other substance to boost its effects. The most popular stimulants used by youngsters to enhance their performance in school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are also sold as a street substance, which is also known as "study drug". They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including snorting, smoking or dissolved in a solution of water and injected directly into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form of or tablets, capsules, brownish or clear crystals, and a powder which can be sprinkled on food items.