Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines in the form of lisdexamfetamine (Adderall and Vyvanse) assist people to focus and control their impulses. Atomoxetine is a nonstimulant that boosts brain neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated with a combination of medicine as well as talk therapy and life skills training. The proper dosage and timing of the medication are important for maximizing its effectiveness.
untreated adhd in adults iampsychiatry increase the speed of the body's systems, including the nervous system. They are prescribed drugs to treat narcolepsy, obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Illegally, they are abused to increase energy and focus. They can be injected, snorted or taken orally. The stimulants are classified as Schedule II substances under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning they are at risk for abuse.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are two of the principal classes of stimulant medications. Amphetamines increase alertness, awareness and productivity by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help people with ADHD feel less tired and improve their concentration. They can also help reduce depression in some people with ADHD and help them sleep better. They may also reduce risk-taking behavior, such as drinking, gambling and drug use.
These medications could cause serious adverse effects if not taken properly or if you consume too many. These medications should be taken according to the instructions of your doctor.
People who misuse stimulants can develop a dependence on them and develop an addiction known as stimulant use disorder. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of this disorder and seek treatment. The signs include a desire for the medication, difficulty stopping the use, and negative impact on your daily life and relationships.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be dangerous for people with particular health issues. These medications can raise your heart rate and blood-pressure which can lead to a stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures, as well as other mental problems.
Many people with ADHD notice an improvement in their symptoms just two weeks after they begin stimulant medication. However, it can take longer for some people to see an improvement. These improvements are often most evident to family members or friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
The addiction to stimulants can occur when people take them at higher doses or for longer durations than recommended by their medical professionals. It can also occur when stimulants are taken together with other substances, for example opioids. This can result in a dangerous combination that increases the risk of overdose and death.
Prescription stimulants are habit-forming but less likely to lead to addiction than illicit drugs such as methamphetamines or cocaine. However, any drug that is used incorrectly can lead to dependence and addiction.
Stimulant medications can be misused easily and is sometimes mixed with alcohol or a different substance to increase its effects. The most popular stimulants that are abused by youngsters to enhance their performance in school, sports or work are caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, methamphetamines, and amphetamines.
Amphetamines are commonly found in prescription and over-the-counter medicines like Adderall. They are also available as a street narcotic, generally referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be smoked, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injected into the muscle or vein. They come in the form of capsules, tablets, clear or brownish crystals and powders that can be sprinkled over food items.