Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritualin), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their impulses and focus. Atomoxetine, a nonstimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of adults suffering from ADHD are treated using the combination of medication along with talk therapy and skills training. The right dose and timing of the medication is important for maximizing its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the body's systems including the nervous system. They are prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy and obesity. They are also abused illegally for recreational purposes to boost energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. They are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they have a high risk for misuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the main classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, cognition and productivity by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in those with ADHD. They can also reduce depression in those with ADHD and assist them in sleeping better. They may also decrease risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling, and drug use.
These medications could cause serious side effects if taken improperly or in excess. These medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your doctor.
People who abuse stimulants may develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is essential to identify symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms include a craving for the medication, difficulties stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
Stimulants aren't only addictive, but they could be harmful to those suffering from certain health conditions. best adhd medications can increase your heart rate and blood-pressure which can lead to a stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures and other mental disorders.
Many people suffering from ADHD see a positive improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people take longer to notice the change. Most people notice the improvements in their families, friends as well as their colleagues and teachers.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people consume them in higher dosages or for longer time than prescribed by their medical professionals. It can also occur when stimulants are taken together with other substances, such as opioids. This can lead to an unwise combination that increases the risk of overdose and death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to lead to addiction than illicit substances such as methamphetamines or cocaine. However any drug misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and can be mixed with alcohol or another substance to enhance its effect. The most common stimulants that are abused by young people to improve their performance in school, at work or in sports are nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines and methamphetamines.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines like Adderall. They are also available as a street drug generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed, snorted, or dissolved in water and injected into the vein or muscle. They come in tablets, capsules, clear or brownish crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled on food.