Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse) can help people manage their thoughts and focus. untreated adhd in adults , a nonstimulant medication that increases brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine is also a possibility.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated using an array of medications along with talk therapy and skills training. The correct dosage and timing of the medication is crucial to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system in addition to other systems. They are prescription medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy and obesity. They are also illegally abused for recreational purposes to boost energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. Stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at danger of abuse.
Amphetamines and methylphenidate are two of the main classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines boost alertness, focus and productivity by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They can help improve concentration and reduce feelings of fatigue in people who have ADHD. They can also help reduce depression in some people with ADHD and help them sleep better. They can also help reduce risky behaviors, such as drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications could cause serious adverse effects if not taken correctly or if you consume too many. It is important to only use these medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
People who use stimulants can 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 for the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your daily life.
In addition to being addicting, stimulants are hazardous for those suffering from certain health issues. These drugs can raise your blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. They can also lead to seizures and other mental disorders.
Many people suffering from ADHD notice a significant improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people are more reticent to notice the change. These improvements are usually visible to family or friends, teachers, and work colleagues.
Addiction to stimulants can occur when people consume these drugs in greater doses than prescribed or for longer than the recommended time by their healthcare professionals. It may also happen when stimulants are used in conjunction with other substances, like opioids. This can result in a risky combination of effects that increase the risk of overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants can be habit-forming however they are less likely to trigger addiction than illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines. However any drug misused improperly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be easily abused and are often mixed with alcohol or other substances to enhance the effects. Nicotine amphetamines, caffeine, and methamphetamines are the most common stimulants abused by teens to enhance their performance at school, in sports, or at work.
Amphetamines are found in prescription and over-the counter medicines such as Adderall. They are also available as a street drug generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be swallowed, smoked, snorted, or dissolved in water and injecting into the muscle or vein. They are available in the form tablets, capsules, brownish or clear crystals and a powder that can be sprinkled over food.