Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their impulses and focus. treat adhd is a non-stimulant medication that boosts brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine, can also be used.
The majority of people with ADHD will be treated with an interdisciplinary approach of medication and life skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication are essential to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the speed of the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed medications that treat narcolepsy, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They are also abused illegally as recreational drugs to increase energy and concentration. They can be consumed orally, snorted, or injected. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at risk for misuse.
Amphetamines, along with the methylphenidate are two of the most commonly used stimulant drugs. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by boosting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They can boost concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue among people with ADHD. They also can help people with ADHD sleep better and decrease depression. They can also help reduce risk-taking behaviors like drinking, gambling, and drug abuse.
These medications could cause serious side effects if taken improperly or in excess. You should only take these medications as directed by your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants can develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction called stimulant use disorder. It is essential to recognize the signs of this disorder and seek treatment. The symptoms include a craving for the medication, difficulty stopping use, and a negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be harmful for those with certain health issues. These drugs can increase blood pressure and heart rate which can lead to heart attacks or strokes. They can also trigger seizures and other mental issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within weeks after starting stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to notice an improvement. These improvements are typically evident to family members friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people take them at higher doses or for longer durations than prescribed by their health care providers. It may also occur when stimulants are mixed with other substances like opioids. This can result in a dangerous combination which increases the risk of an overdose and even death.
Prescription stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines. Any drug used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant drugs are a lot of fun to abuse and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to enhance the effect. The most popular stimulants used by adolescents to boost their performance at school, at work or in sports are nicotine, caffeine amphetamines, methamphetamines, and amphetamines.
Amphetamines can be found in prescription and over-the counter medicines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are also available as a street substance, which is commonly known as "study drug". They can be smoked, snorted or dissolving in a solution of water and injected directly into the muscle or vein. They are available in capsules, tablets, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled on food items.