Treating ADHD With Stimulant Medication
The stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), and amphetamines (lisdexamfetamine, Adderall and Vyvanse), help people control their thoughts and concentrate. Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant drug that boosts the brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated with a combination therapy, medications and life-skills training. It is important to use the right dosage and timing for the medication in order to maximize its effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants stimulate the nervous system, among other systems. They are prescribed medications that treat narcolepsy, obesity, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Illegally, they're used to boost focus and energy. They can be injected, snorted, or taken orally. According to the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) stimulants are classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they pose a high abuse risk.
Amphetamines, along with methylphenidate, are two of the most popular stimulant medications. Amphetamines improve alertness, focus and productivity by increasing the levels of chemicals in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can help those with ADHD feel less tired and boost their concentration. They can also help people who suffer from ADHD to sleep better and reduce depression. They can also help reduce risky behaviors, such as gambling, drinking and drug use.
These medications can cause serious side effects if they are taken improperly or excessively. These medications should be taken according to the instructions of your physician.
People who use stimulants may develop a dependence and develop an addiction, known as stimulant use disorder. It is crucial to recognize signs of this problem and seek treatment. The symptoms of addiction include an urge to use the drug, difficulty in stopping and a negative impact on your everyday functioning.
In addition to being addictive, stimulants can also be dangerous for people with particular health issues. These substances can increase your blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. They can also trigger seizures, among other mental health issues.
Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a noticeable improvement in their symptoms untreated adhd life expectancy within weeks after starting stimulant medication. Some people are more reticent to notice changes. These improvements are typically visible to family or friends, teachers, and colleagues at work.
Addiction to stimulants can occur when people consume the drugs in higher doses than prescribed or for a longer period than prescribed by their health care providers. It can also occur when stimulants are combined with other substances, for example opioids. This can lead to an unwise combination which increases the risk of an overdose and death.
These stimulants can cause dependence, but they are less likely to cause addiction than illicit drugs like methamphetamines and copyright. However, any drug that is misused incorrectly can result in dependence and addiction.
Stimulant drugs can be easily abused and are sometimes mixed with alcohol or other substances to boost the effect. Nicotine, caffeine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are among the most frequently used stimulants by teens to enhance their performance at school and in sports or at work.
Amphetamines are available in prescription and over-the-counter medications, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. They are also available as a street drug often referred to as "study drugs." Amphetamines can be consumed in the form of a smoke, swallowed or snorted, or mixed in water and injections into the vein or muscle. They come in capsules, tablets crystals that are clear or brownish and powders that can be sprinkled over food.